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Gastric mesenchymal tumors (GMTs) are incidentally discovered in national gastric screening programs in Korea. Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) is the most useful diagnostic modality for evaluating GMTs. The differentiation of gastrointestinal stromal tumors from benign mesenchymal tumors, such as schwannomas or leiomyomas, is important to ensure appropriate clinical management. However, this is difficult and operator dependent because of the subjective interpretation of EUS images. Digital image analysis computes the distribution and spatial variation of pixels using texture analysis to extract useful data, enabling the objective analysis of EUS images and decreasing interobserver and intraobserver agreement in EUS image interpretation. This review aimed to summarize the usefulness and future of digital EUS image analysis for GMTs based on published reports and our experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background/Aims: Gastric schwannomas are rare benign mesenchymal tumors that are difficult to differentiate from other mesenchymal tumors with malignant potential, such as gastrointestinal stromal tumors. This study aimed to evaluate the characteristic findings of gastric schwannomas via endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS). Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the EUS findings of 27 gastric schwannoma cases that underwent surgical excision at Pusan National University Hospital during 2007 to 2014. Results: Gastric schwannomas were mainly located in the middle third of the stomach with a mean tumor size of 32 mm. All lesions exhibited hypoechoic echogenicity, and 24 lesions (88.9%) exhibited heterogeneous echogenicity. Seventeen lesions (63.0%) exhibited decreased echogenicity compared to the normal proper muscle layer. Distinct borders were observed in 24 lesions (88.9%), lobulated margins were observed in six lesions (22.2%), and marginal haloes were observed in 24 lesions (88.9%). Hyperechogenic spots were observed in 21 lesions (77.8%), calcifications were observed in one lesion (3.7%), and cystic changes were observed in two lesions (7.4%). Conclusions: During EUS, gastric schwannomas appear as heterogeneously hypoechoic lesions with decreased echogenicity compared to the normal proper muscle layer. These features may be helpful for differentiating gastric schwannomas from other mesenchymal tumors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]