General Information About Polyps
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is the abnormal proliferation of the membranes (mucosa) lining the inner surfaces of the body, forming fleshy masses (protuberances) that hang into a cavity via a stalk or a broad base.
Polyps are benign (not cancer) when they first form. However, colon (large intestine) polyps in particular carry a risk of undergoing genetic mutations over the years and turning into colon cancer.
Genetic predisposition is the biggest cause. In addition, aging, obesity, smoking, inflammatory bowel diseases, or hormonal imbalances (for uterine polyps) trigger polyp formation.
Most polyps cause no symptoms when they are small. Colon polyps can cause occult blood in stool and anemia; uterine polyps may lead to irregular bleeding between periods; and nasal polyps can cause chronic nasal congestion.
They are easily detected with a Colonoscopy for the intestines, Ultrasound and Hysteroscopy for the uterus, and Endoscopic examination by an ENT specialist for the nose.
To eliminate the risk of cancerization, visible polyps must be removed. The procedure is performed bloodlessly (during a colonoscopy or hysteroscopy) by lassoing the polyp with a special wire snare at the tip of the camera and cutting it with a cautery (heat).
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
