Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) start in cells located in the walls of the digestive (gastrointestinal, or GI) tract. The digestive tract includes the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine (colon). The cells of the GI tract help control the contraction and expansion of muscles within our digestive tract. These cells are important for moving food and liquid through the body for digestion, energy, and the removal of waste.
More than half of GISTs start in the stomach. Many others begin in the small intestine. However, gastrointestinal stromal tumors can grow anywhere along the digestive tract. A small number of GISTs start outside the GI tract, in the appendix, gallbladder, or pancreas, for instance.
Types of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors
- Resectable gastrointestinal stromal tumors
- Unresectable gastrointestinal stromal tumors
- Metastatic and recurrent gastrointestinal stromal tumors
- Refractory gastrointestinal stromal tumors
Why Choose Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center?
Sylvester is an NCI-designated cancer center. The National Cancer Institute has recognized Sylvester for its outstanding work conducting research in its laboratories, treating patients in its clinics and hospitals, and reaching out to medically underserved communities with innovative prevention strategies.
Survival rates up to 14 percent higher than national averages for early- and late-stage pancreatic cancer. You get more precise diagnosis and treatment for your exact cancer, the best possible outcomes, and the least potential negative side effects.
One of few Pancreatic Cancer Research Institutes in the country. We offer increased availability of leading-edge treatments and additional resources for patients and families.
More cancer clinical trials than any other South Florida hospital. If appropriate for your cancer and stage, our clinical trials provide you with the very newest ways to treat and potentially cure your cancer.
Only designated Cancer Center of Excellence in South Florida, and one of only 11 prospective payment system (PPS)-exempt dedicated cancer hospitals in America. We treat cancer, and only cancer. And, that means better patient outcomes over traditional hospitals and non-comprehensive cancer treatment providers. The likelihood of a patient surviving cancer after five years at a Dedicated Cancer Center is 17 percent higher than at other hospitals.
Multidisciplinary care teams. Your care team is made up of experts in your exact type of cancer and every single aspect of it.