Adenomatous polyps

Adenomatous polyps are a type of polyp that can be found in the colon or rectum. They are considered pre-cancerous and can potentially develop into colorectal cancer if left untreated.

Overview

Adenomatous polyps are formed from the glandular lining of the colon or rectum. They are one of the most common types of polyps and are often discovered during routine colonoscopy procedures. While not all adenomatous polyps will become cancerous, they have a higher risk of developing into cancer compared to other types of polyps.

Types of Adenomatous Polyps

There are three main types of adenomatous polyps: tubular, villous, and tubulovillous. Tubular adenomas are the most common and have a lower risk of becoming cancerous. Villous adenomas are less common but have a higher risk of cancer. Tubulovillous adenomas are a mix of the two and have an intermediate risk.

Symptoms

Most adenomatous polyps do not cause symptoms. However, if they grow large, they can cause rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits, or abdominal pain.

Diagnosis

Adenomatous polyps are typically diagnosed during a colonoscopy. If a polyp is found, it can be removed and sent to a lab for histopathology to determine if it is adenomatous.

Treatment

The primary treatment for adenomatous polyps is removal during a colonoscopy. This is typically done using a procedure called a polypectomy. In some cases, if the polyp is large or if there are many polyps, surgery may be required.

Prevention

Regular colonoscopies can help detect adenomatous polyps early and prevent them from developing into cancer. Lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol can also reduce the risk of developing adenomatous polyps.