Malignancy of gastrointestinal stromal tumor

The malignancy of gastrointestinal stromal tumors depends on the size, location, cell division index and whether metastasis occurs. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve the survival rate.

1. Tumor size and location: The size and location of a gastrointestinal stromal tumor directly affect its malignancy. Larger tumors are more likely to invade surrounding tissues, increasing the risk of malignancy. Stromal tumors located in the stomach are relatively common, but tumors located in the small intestine or colon may be more invasive.

2. Cell division index: The cell division index Mitotic Index is an important indicator for evaluating the malignancy of tumors. A high division index means that tumor cells proliferate rapidly and are more malignant. This index is usually determined by pathological examination.

3. Metastasis: Whether GIST metastasizes is also a key factor in determining its malignancy. Tumors that metastasize to the liver or other organs usually indicate that the disease has entered an advanced stage, with significantly increased difficulty in treatment and malignancy.

4. Treatment methods: Treatment methods for gastrointestinal stromal tumors include surgical resection, targeted drug therapy and radiotherapy. Surgical resection is the preferred method, especially for early-stage tumors that have not metastasized. Targeted drugs such as imatinib and sunitinib can be used to control tumor growth and prevent recurrence. Radiotherapy is mainly used for cases that cannot be treated with surgery or as an adjuvant therapy after surgery.

5. Lifestyle adjustment: Patients should pay attention to diet and lifestyle adjustments during treatment and recovery. It is recommended to adopt a high-protein, low-fat diet and avoid spicy and irritating foods. Moderate exercise such as walking and yoga can help strengthen the body and improve immunity.

The malignancy of gastrointestinal stromal tumors requires a comprehensive assessment of multiple factors. Early detection and active treatment are the key to improving survival rates. Patients should undergo regular physical examinations, promptly detect and deal with potential problems, and follow the doctor's advice for standardized treatment and lifestyle adjustments to improve prognosis and quality of life.