Important Things To Know
About Polyps
Polyps are growths within the intestines and can vary in size, shape and location. They can be single or multiple. Polyps may be the result of an alteration in the mucosal architecture or may be caused by inflammation (non-neoplastic polyps). Most polyps have the appearance of a cherry with a stalk and are about 1 centimeter. Other polyps are villous (have hairy projections) and they expand by the intestinal surface.
Adenomatous Polyps (adenoma)
There are different types of polyps; neoplastic and nonneoplastic. Neoplastic polyps are adenomatous polyps or adenomas, which can be precursors of cancer. It is therefore, important that patients who are diagnosed with adenomas should be inspected with colonoscopy (test that helps identify and observe in detail the lesions in the large intestine) on a regular basis. There are also non-neoplastic polyps constituting 90% of polyps. They are found in more than half of people over 60 years.
Pre-Cancer And Cancer
Adenomas, when precancerous, are composed of cells with an accelerated growth pattern that rapidly reproduce and the appearance and behavior can only be recognized by the pathologist when examined under the microscope. Because of this, most polyps that are discovered are removed (polypectomy) to be analyzed and classified by the pathologist. It can take about 12 years to develop invasive bowel cancer from an adenoma. Adenomas larger than 2 centimeters in length are suspected of having a malignant focus of cancer before being examined by the pathologist.
What Are The Symptoms Of Polyps?
Although polyps are very common, and rarely produce symptoms in most cases are discovered during a routine colonoscopy. However, adenomas with a malignant focus of cancer and especially those that are larger can bleed, and the blood is eliminated with stool.
Who Is At Risk Of Polyps?
Those persons with suspected bowel symptoms, especially blood loss in the stool, and are over age 40 should consult a specialist who will likely indicate a colonoscopy. Another group of people who are at higher risk of developing bowel cancer are those with relatives who have developed the disease (mother, father, siblings or children). Patients who have developed bowel cancer and have been successfully treated previously are at greater risk of getting polyps throughout their lives. Familial adenomatous polyposis is an inherited disorder in which some family members develop hundreds of polyps that can be precursors to cancer if they are not treated properly.
How Are Polyps Treated?
Colonoscopy is the safest and most accurate test to diagnose polyps. The purpose of this study is not only to diagnose, but to detect suspicious lesions and remove them for later examination under a microscope. About 90% of polyps are detected and resected through colonoscopy.
Future checks
If the pathologist confirms the presence of an adenoma, it is recommended that the patient have checkups frequent through colonoscopy. According to the lesion found, the doctor will determine the frequency of checks and treatment advice.
Definition
The term “polyp” refers to a tumor mass that makes prominence towards the gut lumen. They originate in the mucosa lesions and often have the appearance of a small, warty outgrowth.
Long Distance Telephone Appointments
If you are not local to the clinic, Michelle Honda PhD Holistic Doctor can conduct telephone appointments with you very easily. So if you are anywhere in North America, you can now successfully receive high end, specialized help for your Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. If you are local to the clinic in Hamilton, Toronto or Mississauga Ontario – by all means come in for your appointment. If not, telephone appointments are very popular and convenient.
