A rare case of primary gastrointestinal stromal tumour of the stomach presenting as perforation peritonitis

Abstract

Presentation of gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs) as perforation peritonitis is a rare entity with only few cases reported in literature. Here we present a case of a 50-year-old male with acute abdomen and signs of peritonitis. Abdominal radiography revealed dilated small bowel loops in the absence of any free intraperitoneal air. Exploratory laparotomy revealed a growth arising from the stomach wall at the distal part of the body along the greater curvature. Wide excision of the lesion was done with rent closure. Histopathological examination further confirmed the diagnosis of a GIST of the stomach. Post operatively patient received Imatinib therapy and is doing well on follow up. Although rare, GISTs should be considered in the differential diagnosis of perforated GI lesions.