Risk of Recurrence (Tumor Regrowth)
Even when a GIST has been completely removed, it is possible for a few cancer cells to remain. This can lead to the regrowth of the tumor, in the same place as the original GIST, or the growth of additional tumors elsewhere in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract or liver. [Note: the GI tract includes all of the organs in the digestive system, from the mouth to the anus.] The medical term for the return of a tumor is "recurrence".
Your risk of tumor recurrence depends greatly on certain factors, including:
- Location of the original GIST within the GI tract
- Size of the original tumor
- How quickly the cells of the original tumor were growing
GISTs that are small and slow-growing are less likely to recur after surgery. Those that are large and/or fast-growing are very likely to return. The risk of recurrence is higher for GISTs that first appear in the small intestine or stomach, and somewhat less for GISTs that begin in the rectum.
Patients with GISTs that are more likely to recur often receive adjuvant treatment after surgery with drugs called TKIs. You need to discuss with your oncologist and surgeon whether your GIST is likely to recur and whether treatment with a TKI is right for you.
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