Imatinib and gastrointestinal stromal tumors: Where do we go from here?
Imatinib has tremendously changed the treatment of gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST). Research is currently focusing on its optimal use and the mechanisms of resistance that may emerge. A multidisciplinary approach including medical oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and pathologists is crucial for the optimal management of these patients. Moreover, imatinib treatment in GIST represents an extraordinary model to expand our knowledge on the molecular mechanisms that are basic to the effects of molecularly targeted therapies. This review summarizes the existing knowledge of the imatinib treatment in GIST and describes directions for further development.
De Giorgi
Ugo
U
Department of Oncology, Istituto Toscano Tumori, San Giuseppe Hospital, Via Paladini 40, 50053 Empoli (Florence), Italy. ugo_degiorgi@yahoo.com
Verweij
Jaap
J
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000494:pharmacology; D001549:Benzamides; D004252:DNA Mutational Analysis; D018572:Disease-Free Survival; D019008:Drug Resistance, Neoplasm; D004791:Enzyme Inhibitors / Q000494:pharmacology; D005770:Gastrointestinal Neoplasms / Q000188:drug therapy*; D046152:Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors / Q000188:drug therapy*; D006801:Humans; D000068877:Imatinib Mesylate; D015513:Oncogene Proteins / Q000235:genetics; D010879:Piperazines / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D019009:Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-kit; D011743:Pyrimidines / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D020796:Receptor, Platelet-Derived Growth Factor alpha / Q000235:genetics; D013997:Time Factors
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D001549:Benzamides; D004791:Enzyme Inhibitors; D015513:Oncogene Proteins; D010879:Piperazines; D011743:Pyrimidines; D000068877:Imatinib Mesylate; D019009:Proto-Oncogene Proteins c-kit; D020796:Receptor, Platelet-Derived Growth Factor alpha