Imaging Findings in Benign and Malignant Gastric Tumors

Abstract

Gastric tumors encompass a wide spectrum of neoplastic and non-neoplastic lesions that can be classified into benign or malignant categories. Benign gastric tumors are relatively common and include entities such as gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST), leiomyoma, lipoma, neuroendocrine tumor (NET), and adenomatous polyps. Malignant gastric tumors include adenocarcinoma and lymphoma most commonly. Early and accurate differentiation between benign and malignant gastric tumors is crucial for appropriate patient management, prognosis, and therapeutic strategies. Imaging methods are at the forefront in the diagnosis, staging and post-treatment follow-up of gastric tumors. Ultrasonography, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging should be used as complementary radiological methods depending on the patient and/or disease status.