Objective: To explore the therapeutic effect of STI571(imatinib mesylate) on advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs).
Methods: Clinical data of 5 cases with advanced GISTs were analyzed retrospectively.
Results: The expression of c- kit (CD117) was detected by immunohistochemical method in five patients with advanced GISTs . All patients failed to systematic chemotherapy or radiofrequency and operation because of extensive and multiple metastases (4 cases underwent 1 to 3 times of exploratory surgery). Tumor size was markedly decreased one to six months after STI571 given without serious drug- related side effects.
Conclusions: STI571 is an effective chemotherapy for advanced unresectable or metastatic GISTs. Inhibitor of the Kit signal- transduction pathway is a promising regimen that is different from conventional chemotherapy for advanced GISTs.