Neoadjuvant imatinib, a treatment for gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), effectively and safely decreases tumor size, enabling less extensive surgery with a higher rate of complete resection. Among 108 GIST patients, 88% experienced reduced tumor size. Those with specific genetic mutations predicted a positive response to imatinib. Surgical complications occurred in 15% of cases, but 89% achieved complete resection. Five-year survival rates were 80% disease-free and 91% overall. This study demonstrates the efficacy and safety of neoadjuvant imatinib for large or locally advanced GISTs.
Journal Article by van der Burg SJC, van de Wal D (…) van Houdt WJ et 11 al. in Ann Surg Oncol
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