Diagnostic Images: Adenomatous polyp

Femela Muniraj1, Vishnu Abishek Raju2, Raghavi Nandhakumar3, Dinesh Kumar4

1Consultant – Pathology and Laboratory Services, Kauvery Hospital, Radial Road, Chennai

2Senior Registrar – Pathology and Laboratory Services, Kauvery Hospital, Radial Road, Chennai

3Lead Consultant – Medical Gastroenterology, Kauvery Hospital, Radial Road, Chennai

4Senior Technologist – Histopathology and Cytology, Kauvery Hospital, Radial Road, Chennai

Diagnostic Images

Case Presentation

A patient presented to the OPD for evaluation of anemia. Endoscopic screening was done. A polyp measuring 1 cm was seen in the colon (large intestine).

Screening & Early Diagnosis

Polypectomy was done. Microscopic examination of the tissue revealed adenomatous polyp. Early diagnosis of adenomatous polyps relies on screening methods, especially colonoscopy, which can detect and remove polyps before they turn cancerous. Regular screening is key, particularly for individuals over 50 or with risk factors.

What is adenomatous polyp?

Adenomatous intestinal polyps, are abnormal growths of tissue of the lining of the intestine.

Risks Involved

Potential for Malignancy: Adenomatous polyps are considered precancerous lesions. They have the potential to develop into colorectal cancer over time, especially if left untreated.

Dysplasia Risk: Adenomas often show dysplasia (abnormal cell growth), which is a step toward cancer development.

Size and Type Matter: Larger polyps (>1 cm) and certain types (villous or tubulovillous) have a higher risk of becoming cancerous compared to smaller or tubular adenomas.

Multiplicity: The presence of multiple adenomas increases the overall risk of colorectal cancer.

Recurrence: Even after removal, individuals with adenomatous polyps are at risk for developing new polyps, necessitating regular follow-up colonoscopies.

Family History and Genetic Syndromes: A family history of adenomas or colorectal cancer increases risk. Genetic syndromes like Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) carry a very high lifetime risk of colon cancer.

Lack of Symptoms: Adenomas are often asymptomatic, making early detection challenging without screening.

Bleeding or Anemia: Occasionally, polyps may cause rectal bleeding or iron-deficiency anemia, which can be subtle warning signs.

Take home message

Prevention Is Better Than Cure

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