Background:

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) are the most common mesenchymal tumors of the digestive tract. A rare site of localization of these tumors is the esophagus. Evidence-based consensus regarding the type of surgery for patients with esophageal GIST remains unclear.

Clinical case:

A female without history of diseases experienced dysphagia, weight loss (6 kg) and malaise. Computed tomography revealed thickening of the esophagus. During the endoscopic ultrasonography a localized lesion was observed in the esophagus that depended on the muscularis propria. We opted to treat with an esophagectomy with replacement by transmediastinal transposition of the stomach. Patient recovered well from the surgery and she was discharged home in stable condition in post-operative day seven. At 6 months she has no symptoms.

Conclusion:

This case illustrates the clinical presentation of an esophageal GIST which represents only 1% of all sites where GISTs have been reported; open surgery was successfully performed with minimal morbidity, complete resolution of symptoms and improvement of the patient’s quality of life. Esophagectomy with replacement by transmediastinal transposition of the stomach should be performed when the center has experience to do so with minimal morbidity and mortality.