Polyps

Overview:

Polyps found in the colon (also called colorectal polyps, or colonic polyps) are abnormal growths found protruding from the lining of the large intestine. They can vary in size from smaller than the head of a pin, to the size of a golf ball or larger. They can be flat (sessile), or mushroom-shaped with a stalk (pedunculated). They are very common in the adult population, occurring in 15-20% of individuals, and are one of the most common conditions affecting the colon. Because these growths are generally so small, there are virtually no symptoms associated with colonic polyps. In certain instances though, bleeding, disruption in bowel function, mucous discharge, and abdominal pain may be symptoms. And although most instances are benign, certain types of colonic polyps can be directly linked to colon cancer. Generally speaking, the larger the polyp, the greater the likelihood it is cancerous.

Causes:

Colonic Polyps are the result of abnormal cell growth, cell division that does not follow the orderly method of normal cell growth. If this growth occurs in the colon and rectum, colonic polyps will begin to form along the intestinal wall. The exact reason for these mutations in cell growth is unknown.

Diagnosis:

Because there are generally no symptoms, diagnosis can be made through an endoscopic exam, a virtual colonoscopy, or by x-ray of the bowel through barium enema. A colonoscopy, the endoscopic method, allows your gastroenterologist to directly examine, and remove, the colonic polyps. The virtual colonoscopy allows for accurate observation/diagnosis of colonic polyps, but removal cannot be completed at the same time. The x-ray through barium enema method is generally not as accurate in discovering abnormalities such as colonic polyps.

Treatment:

Because of colonic polyp's ties to various types of colorectal cancer, the safest treatment is the removal of all discovered polyps. This ensures that the polyps can be studied to determine the nature (benign or malignant) of the polyp(s). This can be an important preventative measure for catching cancerous colonic polyps early, should the removed growths contain cancer cells.

How Associates in Gastroenterology can help:

Colon cancer is a very serious disease, and it is essential in treatment to catch it as early as possible. As we mention on our FAQ page here, we will routinely remove any polyps discovered during a colonoscopy for further study. Although it is natural for patients to want to avoid any procedure, we make every effort to ensure that our patients are comfortable throughout the entire process.

Your health is of the utmost importance, so please, if you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned in the Overview above, regardless of age, please consult your physician to determine whether further examination is necessary. If you have a history of cancer in the family, you may be at higher risk. We want to see everyone treat his or her health seriously, and we are always here to help. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact us here.