Polyps can occur in many body locations, including thenose, ears, throat, oruterus.
The most common polyp is acolon polyp, also called a colonic polyp or a colorectal polyp.
Most polyps are benign, but over time some may become cancerous.
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Colon polyps are eitherflat (sessile)or have a stalk (pedunculated).
There are five types of colon polyps, with the most common beingadenomatous.
The adenomatous jot down accounts for 70% of all colon polyps.
Nearly all malignant polyps begin as adenomatous, but the process to evolve into cancer typically takes many years.
However, when symptoms do occur, they may include:
Other health problems can also cause these symptoms.
As many as one in 300 people may be carriers of an altered gene associated with Lynch syndrome.
It is estimated that 3% to 5% of all colorectal cancer cases are resulting from Lynch syndrome.
FAP is diagnosed when a person develops more than 100 adenomatous colon polyps.
This updates previous guidelines, which recommended that screening start at age 50.
Frequency: every five years, or every 10 years.
The tube has a camera that shows images on a screen.
During the test, the healthcare provider can find and remove most polyps and some cancers.
Frequency: every 10 years (for those without an increased risk of colorectal cancer).
Frequency: every five years.
Talk to your healthcare provider about your options and preferences.
The removal of polyps is performed as an outpatient procedure called apolypectomy.
Various techniques are available.
Polypectomy for difficult-to-remove polyps may require the use of special devices and advanced techniques.
Possible but uncommon complications of a polypectomy are bleeding or perforation of the colon.
Bleeding can be immediate or delayed for several days.
If a polyp is found, it will be removed and sent to a laboratory for evaluation.
Prognosis
Once a colon polyp is completely removed, it rarely comes back.
Prevention
Some risk factors, such as age and genetics cant be changed.
However, keep in mind that colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of all cancer deaths.
Routine screening saves many lives, one of which may be yours.
The pros definitely outweigh the cons.
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