Colonic polyps

Predominantly asymptomatic.

Adenomas are highly prevalent and related to age (individuals >60 years of age), sex (higher incidence in men than in women), and family history (first-degree relatives with colorectal cancer).

Most colorectal cancers arise in an adenoma (adenoma-carcinoma sequence).

Polypectomy reduces the incidence of colorectal cancer by up to 90%.

Polyp surveillance is based upon polyp size, number, and histopathology.

Familial polyposis syndromes should be considered if many polyps are found, particularly in younger patients.

Non-neoplastic polyps include hyperplastic polyps, hamartomas, inflammatory polyps, and lymphoid polyps.

Colorectal polyps are projections arising from the colonic mucosal surface that may be neoplastic or non-neoplastic; histopathology is required to confirm the nature of the polyp.