Colonic polyps

Colonic Polyps

A colon polyp is a small clump of cells that forms on the lining of the colon. Most colon polyps are harmless. But over time, some colon polyps can develop into colon cancer, which is often fatal when found in its later stages.

You’re at higher risk if you’re 50 or older, are overweight or a smoker, or have a personal or family history of colon polyps or colon cancer.

Colon polyps often don’t cause symptoms. It’s important to have regular screening tests, such as a colonoscopy, because colon polyps found in the early stages can usually be removed safely and completely. The best prevention for colon cancer is regular screening for polyps.

Symptoms

Colon polyps often cause no symptoms.

But some people with colon polyps experience: Rectal bleeding, change in stool color, change in bowel habits, iron deficiency anemia.

Screening

• Your age is 50 or older.
• You have risk factors, such as a family history of colon cancer. Some high-risk individuals should begin regular screening much earlier than age 50.

 

There are two main categories of polyps, non-neoplastic and neoplastic. Non-neoplastic polyps include hyperplastic polyps, inflammatory polyps, and hamartomatous polyps. Non-neoplastic polyps typically do not become cancerous.

Inflammatory polyps may be seen with ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease of the colon. Although the polyps themselves are not a significant threat, having ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease of the colon increases your overall risk of colon cancer.

Neoplastic polyps include adenomas and serrated types. Most colon polyps are adenomas. Serrated polyps may become cancerous, depending on their size and location in the colon. In general, the larger a polyp, the greater the risk of cancer, especially with neoplastic polyps.

 

Factors that may contribute to the formation of colon polyps or cancer include:

 

• Most people with colon polyps are 50 or older.
• Inflammatory intestinal conditions, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.
• Family history
• Obesity and lack of exercise.

 

You can greatly reduce your risk of colon polyps and colorectal cancer by having regular screenings. Certain lifestyle changes also can help:

• Adopt healthy habits.
• Talk to your doctor about calcium and vitamin D.
• If you’ve been diagnosed with a hereditary disorder that causes colon polyps, you’ll need regular colonoscopies starting in young adulthood.

Diagnosis

• Colonoscopy,
• CT colonography
• Stool-based tests

 

The options for removal include:

• Colonoscopic Polypectomy.
• Minimally invasive surgery