Imagerie des tumeurs stromales digestives

Imaging of gastrointestinal stromal tumors Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) arising from interstitial cells of Cajal, represent the first type of solid tumor, which is very sensitive to a specific molecularly targeted tyrosine kinase receptor blocker (i. e., imatinib). On CT, which is considered as the reference technique, GISTs typically present as large, well-delineated, heterogeneous and sometimes exophytic masses. In contrast with the absence of lymph node involvement, hepatic metastasis as well as mesenteric involvement can be observed. MR-enteroclysis is indicated to investigate the local extent of the disease in specific cases whereas MR imaging is used to detect hepatic metastasis. Because of a specific treatment, contrast-enhanced imaging is needed for the follow-up of treated tumors. Evaluation of tumor response to treatment is best assessed with CT which still remains the reference imaging technique whereas FDG-PET imaging is used in specific cases.