Imaging pediatric gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST)
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In brief
In brief
Systematic review of imaging strategies for pediatric gastrointestinal stromal tumors, which differ from adult GIST in histology and clinical course. Recommends MRI, contrast-enhanced ultrasound, and PET-CT over CT for staging and follow-up to minimize radiation exposure in this chronic pediatric condition.
Written by the GCMD Library team from the article.
Background
Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) are extremely rare in children. Imaging plays a key role in staging and monitoring therapy (surgical and with tyrosine kinase inhibitors). The vast majority of articles addressing imaging of GIST base on adults and are based on CT. The subtype "pediatric GIST" – if at all – is only mentioned in a dependent clause. Although the imaging features in children and adults are similar, histology, clinical course and thus imaging approach are different.
Methods
A PubMed search using the search terms "Gastrointestinal stromal tumor, GIST, WT GIST, children, pediatric, carney's triad, imaging, staging, follow-up, MRI, CEUS, ultrasonography, Positron emission tomography" was conducted. Studies that reported on laparoscopy, endoscopy and surgical techniques only were excluded.
Results
Based on our selective literature review, we present alternative radiological imaging strategies using MRI, contrast enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and PET–CT to stage and follow-up pediatric GIST patients. As pediatric GIST often is a chronic disease, minimizing exposure to ionizing radiation is mandatory.
Conclusion
MRI, contrast enhanced ultrasound and PET–CT instead of CT are the imaging modalities to evaluate pediatric GIST.
Type of study
Systematic review
Level of evidence
III