A case of a gastrointestinal stromal tumour presenting as acute abdomen.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Gastrointestinal stromal tumour (GIST) has many modes of presentation. This is the first reported GIST presenting as an acute abdomen. METHODS: A man presented with signs and symptoms suggestive of acute appendicitis. Examination under anaesthesia revealed a mass. At laparotomy a strangulated mass was found originating from the greater curve of the stomach. Subsequent histopathology confirmed this to be a gastrointestinal stromal tumour, probably of a benign nature. Post-operative investigations did not show any metastatic spread. CONCLUSIONS: GISTs arise from the gastrointestinal tract, omentum, and mesentery. Presentation is generally non-specific and it is rare for them to present acutely. Management should include staging to exclude any metastatic spread.