Colon polyp
Colon Polyp
A Colon Polyp (pronounced: /ˈkoʊlən ˈpɒlɪp/) is a small clump of cells that forms on the lining of the colon. Most colon polyps are harmless. However, over time, some colon polyps can develop into colon cancer, which is often fatal when found in its later stages.
Etymology
The term "polyp" comes from the Greek word "polypus", which means "many footed". The term "colon" is derived from the Latin word "colon", which means "large intestine".
Types of Colon Polyps
There are several types of colon polyps, including:
- Adenomatous polyps: These polyps sometimes change into cancer. Because of this, adenomas are called a pre-cancerous condition.
- Hyperplastic polyps: In general, these polyps are not at risk for cancer.
- Inflammatory polyps: These polyps may follow colitis or Crohn's disease. While these polyps themselves are not a significant risk, having colitis or Crohn's disease can increase your overall risk of colon cancer.
Symptoms
Most colon polyps are asymptomatic, meaning they do not cause any noticeable symptoms. However, in some cases, individuals with colon polyps may experience:
- Rectal bleeding
- Change in stool color
- Change in bowel habits
- Pain, nausea or vomiting
Diagnosis
Colon polyps are often found during standard screening exams of the colon, including:
Treatment
Treatment for colon polyps usually involves their removal to prevent them from becoming cancerous, if they aren't already. This is typically done during a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy.
Prevention
Prevention strategies for colon polyps include regular screening, maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Colon polyp
- Wikipedia's article - Colon polyp
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