Search

Introduction In recent years we assisted to a real “boom” of colorectal polyps, mainly due to the diffusion of screening procedures and of colonoscopy. This new “Polyp Epidemic” raises a series of problems and challenges. It became clear that many syndromes are defined by the number, histological type and location of polyps, together with extraintestinal manifestations and, in most cases, specific molecular changes. This paper discusses some of the above mentioned points, focusing on the relative role of endoscopists and pathologists. The objective is to reach an operative classification of the most common polyps observed in daily practice which might be of help for the identification of inherited syndromes. Methods and results Six main histological types of polyps are defined and underlined: Adenoma, hyperplastic/serrated, hamartoma, ganglioneuroma, mixed, inflammatory. The importance of a brief description, in pathology reports, of each type of polyps is fundamental for a correct diagnosis. Each of the defined polyps is associated with inherited syndromes whose genetic basis has recently been elucidated. Relevant information should be given, and separated from additional (and not strictly necessary) information. Recommendations A correct polyp analysis is a valuable element for identifying specific inherited syndromes. Polyps represent a precious tool for planning screening and follow-up in a given individual. In addition, these lesions focus the interest of clinicians toward syndrome which were considered as rare diseases; indeed, the explosion of molecular biology and the diffusion of colonoscopy revealed that these conditions are frequent and amenable of treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Italian Oral Surgery is the property of Elsevier B.V. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)