A gastrointestinal stromal tumor, aka GIST, is a gastrointestinal tumor or soft tissue tumor. This GI tumor occurs in the stomach lining or the small intestine. However, in many cases, these tumors can occur in other parts of the digestive system. These tumors take place when the cellular growth goes uncontrolled. The tumors can grow into other organs as well, like the liver. They start from the nerve cells called ICC or interstitial cells of Cajal that act as specialized precursor cells for GIST.<\/p>\n
There are several treatments like targeted therapy using drugs, surgery, etc., that help treat GIST. Here are some reasons why GIST can be a problem:<\/p>\n
Age<\/strong>: One of the biggest risk factors is the patient\u2019s age. GIST is rare in people under the age of 40. This tumor is most found in people who are between 50-80 years old.<\/p>\n Genes<\/strong>: One of the biggest factors behind GIST is a genetic mutation. Some people tend to be born with a certain genetic mutation that causes tumors like GIST. The probable genetic mutation that causes GIST are:<\/p>\n