Duodenal gastrointestinal stromal tumor: a rare disease in a young male patient presenting with life-threatening hemorrhage

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are rare in the duodenum and can pose significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, particularly when presenting with acute gastrointestinal bleeding. A 33 years old male presented with multiple episodes of hematemesis, melena and severe anemia. Upper endoscopy revealed a duodenal nodule with overlying ulceration. CT angiography suggested a submucosal lesion consistent with a gastrointestinal stromal tumor. After stabilization, the patient underwent exploratory laparotomy with local tumor excision and omentoplasty. Postoperative recovery was uneventful. Histopathological evaluation confirmed the diagnosis of a low-grade spindle-cell type GIST. The tumor was submucosal, unifocal and fully resected with clear margins. The surgical approach was tailored to preserve duodenal integrity, given the patient's young age and tumor location. This case emphasizes the importance of recognizing duodenal GIST as a potential cause of upper gastrointestinal bleeding, even in younger adults. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate surgical intervention can lead to favorable outcomes.