Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumour in a Young Adult: A Case Report

Abstract

Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumour (GIST) is the most common mesenchymal tumour. Peak ages are typically 60-65 years hence very few young adults present with GIST. Here, we present a case of a 26-year-old male with an acute chronic history of melena subsequently diagnose with GIST. No pathology was initially identified upon multiple gastroscopies and a colonoscopy. The patient then underwent Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Enterography which revealed a 5.6cm soft tissue mass in the right pelvis without any established evidence of bowel invasion. A Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan did not reveal metastases. Laparoscopy was done and a small bowel resection was performed upon identifying the mass in the bowel. Histopathology analysis showed GIST with a TNM staging of IIIA. The patient was discharged 9 days later with Imatinib to be considered as adjuvant therapy. This case highlights the rarity of GIST seen in young adults presenting with undiagnosed abdominal symptoms as well as peri-operative investigations and surgical management.