Colon polyps are growths on the inner lining of the large intestine, and some types, such as adenomas, can slowly turn into cancer over years. Finding and removing them during screening is one of the best ways to prevent colorectal cancer.
Key symptoms
- Usually no symptoms
- Blood in or on the stool
- Iron deficiency anemia with tiredness
- Change in bowel habits with large polyps
What you find on exam
- Often a normal exam
- Rectal exam may find blood or a low polyp
- Pale skin if there is anemia
- Ask about family history of polyps or colon cancer
Tests
- Colonoscopy, the test that finds and removes polyps
- Stool tests such as FIT for screening, followed by colonoscopy if positive
- Blood count to check for anemia
- Pathology of removed polyps to set the follow-up interval
Treatment basics
- Removal of polyps during colonoscopy (polypectomy)
- Repeat colonoscopy timed by number, size and type of polyps
- Average-risk screening starts at age 45
- Genetic counseling for many polyps or strong family history
Red flags
- Heavy rectal bleeding
- Unexplained weight loss or anemia
- Many polyps at a young age, suggesting an inherited syndrome
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Sources: NCCPA PANCE Content Blueprint; NBOME COMLEX-USA clinical presentations; AAMC Core Entrustable Professional Activities (Core EPAs). Written by Making Synapses. Making Synapses is not affiliated with these organizations.