Gastrointestinal stromal tumor causing bleeding and intussusception: A case report.

INTRODUCTION

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are rare mesenchymal tumors that originate from interstitial cells of Cajal. They most commonly occur in the stomach, followed by the small bowel. Jejunal GISTs are particularly rare and often present with nonspecific symptoms. However, they can also present with gastrointestinal bleeding and intussusception, complicating diagnosis and treatment.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

We report a case of a 58-year-old male who presented with melena and anemia due to a bleeding intussuscepting jejunal gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST). The patient underwent jejunal resection and anastomosis. The postoperative course was uncomplicated, and the patient made a full recovery.

DISCUSSION

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) can present with melena and acute or chronic anemia due to gastrointestinal bleeding. The bleeding typically results from ulceration or erosion of blood vessels within the tumor. The diagnosis is often challenging, as the symptoms are nonspecific. Imaging techniques such as CT scans are essential for identifying the tumor, and surgical resection is the primary treatment, providing favorable outcomes for localized, low-risk cases.

CONCLUSION

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs), although rare, should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with gastrointestinal bleeding and anemia.