Test Details: Platelet derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFRA) is a part of a family of proteins called receptor tyrosine kinases. Mutations in the PDGFRA gene are associated with GISTs the most common mesenchymal neoplasm of the gastrointestinal tract. PDGFRA gene mutation can be used to help confirm or contradict a diagnosis of GIST, test for germline mutation to investigate a potential hereditary GIST family, guide choice of chemotherapy and distinguish synchronous GISTs from single primary with metastases.