Incidental GIST Identified in Minimally Invasive Surgery

Introduction – Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are rare mesenchymal tumors of the gastrointestinal tract often detected incidentally.

Epidemiology – GISTs most commonly arise in the stomach and small intestine, typically affecting middle-aged and older adults.

Clinical Presentation – Many GISTs remain asymptomatic and are discovered during imaging or unrelated surgical procedures.

Intraoperative Finding – During minimally invasive surgery, a small submucosal mass may be unexpectedly visualized.

Diagnostic Evaluation – Histopathology and immunohistochemistry (CD117/DOG1 positivity) confirm the diagnosis of GIST.

Risk Stratification – Tumor size and mitotic index are key factors in assessing malignant potential.

Surgical Management – Complete surgical excision with clear margins is the standard treatment approach.

Prognosis and Follow-up – Early incidental detection generally carries a favorable prognosis with regular surveillance.

Conclusion – Incidental GIST identified during minimally invasive surgery highlights the importance of careful intraoperative assessment and appropriate management.