Polyp (medicine)

Polyp (medicine)

A polyp is an abnormal growth of tissue projecting from a mucous membrane. Polyps are commonly found in organs with a large surface area of mucous membrane, such as the colon, stomach, nose, sinuses, urinary bladder, and uterus. While most polyps are benign, some can develop into cancer.

Types of Polyps

Polyps can be classified based on their histological appearance and their potential for malignancy.

Colorectal Polyps

Colorectal polyps are growths on the lining of the colon or rectum. They are common in adults and can be classified into several types:

• Adenomatous polyps: These are the most common type of polyp and have the potential to become cancerous. They are further divided into tubular, tubulovillous, and villous types.

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A polyp in the colon.

• Hyperplastic polyps: These are usually small and have a low risk of becoming cancerous.

A hyperplastic polyp.

• Sessile serrated adenomas: These polyps have a saw-tooth appearance under the microscope and can develop into cancer if not removed.

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Sessile serrated adenoma.

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Pie chart of colorectal polyp etiologies.

Gastric Polyps

Gastric polyps are found in the stomach and can be classified into several types:

• Fundic gland polyps: These are the most common type of gastric polyp and are usually benign.

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Fundic gland polyp in the stomach.

• Hyperplastic polyps: These are associated with chronic inflammation and have a low risk of malignancy.

Histopathology of a gastric hyperplastic polyp.

• Adenomatous polyps: These are less common but have a higher risk of becoming cancerous.

Pie chart of relative incidences of gastric polyps.

Other Types of Polyps

Polyps can also occur in other parts of the body, such as the nasal cavity, sinuses, bladder, and uterus. Each type of polyp has its own characteristics and potential for malignancy.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Polyps are often diagnosed during routine screening procedures such as colonoscopy or endoscopy. Once identified, polyps can be removed and examined histologically to determine their type and potential for malignancy.

• Colonoscopy: A procedure used to examine the interior of the colon and rectum, often used to detect and remove polyps.

• Endoscopy: A procedure used to examine the interior of a hollow organ or cavity of the body, such as the stomach or bladder.

Related Pages

• Colonoscopy
• Endoscopy
• Adenoma
• Cancer