Polyps in colonoscopy results

Polyps are a common finding. Studies show that polyps are detected in about 30% to 50% of colonoscopies in adults, depending on age, sex and screening history.

Adenomas, also called adenomatous polyps, are the most common precancerous type of polyp found during colonoscopy. About two-thirds of precancerous polyps fall into this category, and they can turn into a type of cancer called adenocarcinoma if they aren't removed.

• Tubular adenoma. This is the most common type of precancerous polyp. It generally has the lowest risk.
• Villous or tubulovillous adenomas. These polyps have a higher chance of developing into cancer, so follow-up is sooner.

Not all polyps found during a colonoscopy are adenomas. Your report may mention other types of growths, which differ in how they look and how likely they are to become cancerous.

• Hyperplastic polyps. These small, noncancerous growths are most often found in the lower colon or rectum. They are considered low risk and generally do not require earlier follow-up unless they are large (10 millimeters or more) or located higher in the colon.
• Sessile serrated lesions (SSLs). These flat or slightly raised growths usually appear in the upper colon and can be difficult to see. Although most are benign, larger SSLs or those with cell changes, called dysplasia, have a higher potential to develop into colorectal cancer. Follow-up timing is similar to that for advanced adenomas.
• Traditional serrated adenomas (TSAs). These less common serrated polyps also carry a higher cancer risk. Follow-up is recommended on the same schedule as follow-up for advanced adenomas.
• Inflammatory polyps. These noncancerous projections are linked to chronic inflammation of the colon. They are often seen in conditions such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease. They do not increase cancer risk on their own but may signal active inflammation that requires ongoing care.
• Hamartomatous polyps. These rare polyps contain a mixture of normal tissue types and sometimes occur in hereditary syndromes such as Peutz–Jeghers or juvenile polyposis. People with these syndromes often need genetic counseling and specialized follow-up.