Abstract
BACKGROUND: Intracranial metastasis of Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors (GIST) is rare but presents unique treatment challenges. We present a case of intracranial metastasis of GIST with a systematic review of the literature regarding this rare clinical scenario. METHODS: A systematic review of the literature was performed to identify cases of intradural GIST metastases to the brain. Additionally, a patient case of GIST is discussed. RESULTS: Out of the 18 articles included for analysis in this review and our present case, fifteen of nineteen patients were male, and mean age was 58 years old (range 15–80 years, median 60 years). The primary site of the GIST along with site of intraperitoneal metastasis was variable. There was a large predilection for brain metastasis to the cerebrum with only one to infratentorial elements. The tumors in seven of the cases involved the dura, and there was one case with metastasis to the pituitary. Eight patients died following treatment of their intracranial disease. CONCLUSIONS: Surgery remains the mainstay of intracranial metastatic GIST, however there are many reports of good responses to radiation or chemotherapy alone. More investigation is required to determine the best course of treatment for patients with this unusual sequela of GIST.
Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors Associated with Neurofibromatosis 1: A Single Centre Experience and Systematic Review of the Literature Including 252 Cases