A Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor (GIST) and a Pseudocyst of the Pancreas: A Peculiar Case of Both Co-existing in the Same Patient.

ABSTRACT

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most common mesenchymal neoplasms of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, typically originating from the interstitial cells of Cajal. The clinical presentations are variable according to their size and shape but rarely present as a palpable abdominal mass. Pancreatic pseudocysts are common complications of chronic pancreatitis characterized by fluid collections surrounded by a non-epithelialized wall of fibrous and granulation tissue. Patients may present with non-specific symptoms like abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting and they generally have a history of acute pancreatitis. Small pseudocysts often resolve spontaneously, but larger ones often become symptomatic and may lead to complications. It is rare to find both a GIST of the stomach and a pseudocyst of the pancreas in the same patient. We present a unique case of a giant GIST and a pancreatic pseudocyst in a 72-year-old male who was experiencing abdominal pain and distension. Imaging revealed a massive lesion originating from the posterior gastric wall, which resembled a pseudocyst, along with a distinct cystic lesion adjacent to the pancreatic body. During surgical exploration, a complex interplay of both pathologies was discovered, requiring a comprehensive resection approach. The successful outcome highlights the importance of careful evaluation and personalized management in such rare cases.