Abstract：Objective: To analyze the clinical and imaging features of gastrointestinal stromal tumors(GIST) and explore the imaging value in diagnosing the disease. Materials and Methods: The clinical and imaging data of 20 patients with GIST proved by operation and pathology were analyzed. Results: Tumors located in stomach 3 cases, in small bowel 11 cases, in colorectum 1 case and in extra gastrointestinal sites 4 cases. Immunohistochemical study diagnosed the GISTs as benign in 1 case, intermediate in 7 cases and malignant in 12 cases. The common symptoms were gastrointestinal tract bleeding(5/20), vague abdominal discomfort and abdominal pain(13/20), abdominal tumors(6/20) and abnormal bowel movements(3/20). The main imaging appearances included predominating exophytic growth, necrosis and liquefaction of tumors. On enhanced CT scan, the tumor enhanced moderately. Mass border is clear or unclear and metastases to local lymph nodes is uncommon, but it is easy to metastase to liver or seeding in abdominal cavity. Conclusion: The imaging features of GIST have some characteristics. CT, MRI examination have high value in detecting its location, evaluating its characteristics and treatment.
2009, Vol. 20 
