Efficacy of Sunitinib in Patients with Imatinib-Resistant Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors

Abstract

Aim: In this study, the efficacy of sunitinib in patients with imatinib-resistant gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) was investigated. Material and Method: A total of 11 imatinib-resistant GIST patients who have sufficient information about their medical treatment and outcome were retrospectively analyzed. Results: Partial response was observed in only two patients, and five patients achieved stable disease. Progression free survival and overall time was 8.8 months and 12 months, respectively. Sunitinib was relatively well tolerated. Almost all patients experienced one or more treatment-related adverse event. Discussion: Based on our limited experience, we concluded that sunitinib is reasonable treatment option for patients with imatinib-resistant GIST.