THE GLOBAL LEADER IN NON-INVASIVE TESTING

What are colonic polyps?

Colon Cancer and Colonic Polyps

Colonic polyps are growths that form on the inner lining of the colon (large intestine). They are common in adults, however, the exact cause is not known. Most colonic polyps are harmless, however, some can develop into colorectal cancer over time. If discovered in its later stages, it can be fatal.

 

Types of colonic polyps

Colonic polyps form as a single polyp or multiple polyps, in different sizes and shapes. There are three main types of polyps:

  1. Adenomatous polyps or adenoma: These are the most common colonic polyps. Adenomatous polyps are important because they are the most common cause of colorectal cancer. The likelihood for an adenoma to develop into cancer depends on its size; large polyps are more likely to become malignant. There are also several familial, genetic conditions in which the mutations or the development of mutations are programmed into an individual’s genes from before birth, passed down from parent or child.
  2. Hyperplastic polyps: These are the second most common type of colonic polyps. Sometimes, Hyperplastic polyps coexist with adenomatous polyps. However, they don’t carry a risk of developing into cancer unless they are located in the proximal (ascending colon).
  3. Malignant polyps: These polyps that are noted through microscopic examination contain cancer cells.

Colonic polyps symptoms

Most colonic polyps do not cause symptoms or signs. They are usually discovered during routine screening exams. However, some people experience the following symptoms:

  • Rectal bleeding
  • Change in stool color
  • Blood in stool
  • Change in bowel habits
  • Pain, nausea or vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Iron deficiency anemia
  • Weakness, light-headedness

When to see a doctor

You should see a doctor when you experience any symptoms. In addition, if you are at risk of developing colonic polyps, you should be screened regularly. You are at risk if you:

  • Are 50 years or older
  • Have a personal history or family history of colorectal polyps or colorectal cancer
  • Have a history of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
  • Inherited syndromes such as Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) and hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC).

Treatment for colonic polyps

Colonic polyps are examined under the microscope to determine the type. If they are cancerous or have the potential to be, they are removed during a colonoscopy. However, surgery may be required if the polyps can’t be removed during a colonoscopy or if they are large. This is mostly done through a minimally invasive surgery called bylaparoscopic surgery. Once the polyps are removed, a follow-up screening is recommended.

Contact Polymedco CDP, LLC

Colorectal cancer, one of the deadliest forms of cancer, can be cured if caught early. Early treatment dramatically increases the chance of survival. Please take the necessary steps to get tested. For quality screening products, call us today at 888-638-7757 or email at tpucci@polymedco.com.

 
 
Click here to share on Facebook
Click here to share on facebook
Click here to share on Twitter
About Polymedco     |     Contact Us     |     Follow Us     |     Terms of Use     |     Privacy Policy
  • Review Us on Facebook

    Facebook

  • Review Us on Google+

    Google+

2024 © Polymedco CDP, LLC | 510 Furnace Dock Rd | Cortlandt Manor, NY 10567 | polymedco.com