A GIST, or gastrointestinal stromal tumor, develops within the glandular cells of the digestive system, which processes food to derive energy and rids the body of solid waste. While a GIST can form anywhere along the gastrointestinal tract, which spans from the esophagus to the anus, most tumors originate in the stomach or small intestine. More rarely, a GIST might develop in the omentum (the layer of fatty tissue situated above the abdominal organs) or the peritoneum (the layer of tissue that lines the abdominal walls).

Not every GIST is cancerous or will spread to other areas of the body. Furthermore, a GIST is different from many other types of gastrointestinal cancers, such as bowel, small intestine, anal, gallbladder, stomach, liver, esophageal and pancreatic cancer, as well as neuroendocrine tumors. Because a GIST originates within a distinct type of cell, an accurate diagnosis is vital to determining the most appropriate form of treatment.

Our Approach

At Moffitt Cancer Center, we offer a comprehensive program that incorporates a full range of diagnostics, treatment options, clinical research trials and support services for patients with GISTs. With a highly collaborative approach to patient care, we address all of our patients’ health care needs and concerns in a single, convenient location. Our multispecialty GIST team includes members of our Sarcoma Program and Gastrointestinal Oncology Program, as well as experts from many other disciplines, such as:

Surgical oncologists
Medical oncologists
Radiation oncologists
Interventional radiologists
Endoscopy specialists
Pathologists
Supportive care specialists
Nurses

These knowledgeable and experienced specialists work closely together to plan and carry out an individualized treatment plan for each GIST patient that is reviewed weekly by a multispecialty tumor board.

In recognition of our commitment to providing cutting-edge cancer treatments, the National Cancer Institute has designated Moffitt the only Comprehensive Cancer Center based in Florida. By offering patients exciting new treatment opportunities through clinical trials, Moffitt has distinguished itself as a world-class cancer center. In many cases, our patients are among the first to benefit from advanced therapies that are not yet offered anywhere else. In sum, Moffitt’s GIST patients can feel confident that they have access to the most promising treatments available.

If you’re experiencing symptoms or have been diagnosed with a GIST, call 1-888-663-3488 or complete our new patient registration form to schedule an appointment to meet with our GIST team.

Support the Future of Gastrointestinal Oncology Research and Treatment

When you support Moffitt Cancer Center, you help make breakthrough gastrointestinal research and innovative treatments possible.

Give now to support the Gastrointestinal Oncology Program. For more information, call toll-free 1-800-456-3434, ext. 1403.

GIST (Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor)

Request an Appointment with a GIST Specialist

Appointment Details

What best describes your first appointment at Moffitt?

A cancer concern or suspected diagnosis

Exploring cancer treatment options

Interest in a clinical trial

Screening, genetic testing or survivorship exams

How were you referred to Moffitt?

I am referring myself

I am being referred by my physician

I am being referred by my employer

Patient Contact Information

First Name

Last Name

Patient date of birth

Patient street address

Patient city

Patient state

Patient zip code

Email address

Patient Phone Number

Phone Type

Patient Insurance Information

Primary insurance

Policy ID number

Is the patient the policy holder?

Yes

Patient's Employer

Does the patient have secondary insurance, or a Medicare Supplement (Medigap) Plan?

Yes

GIST Oncology Program Leadership

Ricardo Gonzalez

Dr. Ricardo Gonzalez is a surgical oncologist and Chair of the Sarcoma Department at Moffitt Cancer Center. He also serves as a member of the Cutaneous Program at Moffitt Cancer Center. He is an ...

Meet the Team of GIST Specialists