Enhanced Verifiable CPD from the
University of Birmingham

Dentaljuce Shorts: 500 words, 10 MCQs, on general medicine and surgery.

Colorectal Polyp

A colorectal polyp is a fleshy growth occurring on the lining of the colon or rectum. If left untreated, colorectal polyps can develop into colorectal cancer. They are often classified based on their behaviour (benign vs. malignant) or cause, such as inflammatory bowel disease.

Polyps can be benign (e.g., hyperplastic polyp), pre-malignant (e.g., tubular adenoma), or malignant (e.g., colorectal adenocarcinoma).

Polyp of sigmoid colon as revealed by colonoscopy. Approximately 1 cm in diameter. The polyp was removed by snare cautery.
Polyp of sigmoid colon as revealed by colonoscopy. Approximately 1 cm in diameter. The polyp was removed by snare cautery.

Signs and Symptoms

Colorectal polyps are typically asymptomatic. When symptoms do occur, they may include bloody stools, changes in stool frequency or consistency, and fatigue due to blood loss. Anaemia from iron deficiency can also present without visible blood in the stool. Increased mucus production, particularly with villous adenomas, can lead to symptomatic hypokalaemia. If a polyp is large enough, it can cause bowel obstruction, leading to nausea, vomiting, and severe constipation.

Structure

Polyps can be pedunculated (attached to the intestinal wall by a stalk) or sessile (growing directly from the wall). Histologically, they are divided into tubular adenomas (tubular glands), villous adenomas (finger-like projections), and tubulovillous adenomas (features of both).

Genetics

Hereditary syndromes associated with increased colorectal polyp formation include Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP), Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer (HNPCC or Lynch Syndrome), Peutz–Jeghers Syndrome, and Juvenile Polyposis Syndrome. Genes implicated in polyposis include GREM1, MSH3, MLH3, NTHL1, RNF43, and RPS20.

Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP)

FAP involves the APC gene on chromosome q521 and presents with multiple polyps at an early age, all of which will eventually develop into cancer if untreated. The gene is autosomal dominant, with 10-20% of cases arising from spontaneous germline mutations. Colorectal cancer screening and surgical removal of affected tissues are recommended.

Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer (HNPCC or Lynch Syndrome)

HNPCC is the most common hereditary form of colorectal cancer in the U.S., accounting for 3% of cases. It is characterised by early onset, proximal lesions, and a high response to surgical intervention. The condition is linked to dysfunctions in DNA repair mechanisms, involving genes such as hMSH2, hMSH1, hMSH6, and hPMS2.

Peutz–Jeghers Syndrome

This autosomal dominant syndrome presents with hamartomatous polyps and hyperpigmentation of the mouth, lips, and fingers. It is associated with the STK11 gene and increases the risk of both intestinal and extraintestinal cancers. Polyps larger than 1.5 cm require removal, and patients should be monitored closely.

Juvenile Polyposis Syndrome

Characterised by an increased risk of intestinal and extraintestinal cancers, this syndrome is linked to the SMAD4 gene. Multiple juvenile polyps increase the risk of malignancy, necessitating close monitoring and possibly surgical intervention.

Types

Colorectal polyps can be broadly classified into hyperplastic, neoplastic (adenomatous and malignant), hamartomatous, and inflammatory types.

Incidences and malignancy risks of various types of colorectal polyps.
Incidences and malignancy risks of various types of colorectal polyps.

Prevention

Diet and lifestyle significantly impact colorectal polyp formation. Protective factors include the consumption of cooked green vegetables, brown rice, legumes, and dried fruit.

Diagnosis

Colorectal polyps can be detected using various methods, including faecal occult blood tests, flexible sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, virtual colonoscopy, digital rectal examination, barium enema, or pill camera.

Treatment

Polyps can be removed during a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy using a wire loop that cuts and cauterises the stalk. Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) is used for larger, laterally spreading adenomas. Minimally invasive surgery is indicated for polyps too large or in unfavourable locations for endoscopic removal.

Follow-up

U.S. guidelines recommend follow-up intervals based on initial findings. For example, normal findings suggest a 10-year interval, while multiple adenomas or larger adenomas may necessitate more frequent monitoring.

Hyperplastic polyp under H&E stain.
Hyperplastic polyp under H&E stain.
Tubular adenoma under H&E stain.
Tubular adenoma under H&E stain.
Villous adenoma under H&E stain.
Villous adenoma under H&E stain.
Colorectal adenocarcinoma under H&E stain.
Colorectal adenocarcinoma under H&E stain.

Self-assessment MCQs (single best answer)

Which type of colorectal polyp is considered pre-malignant?



Which hereditary syndrome is associated with the APC gene on chromosome q521?



Which of the following is a typical symptom of colorectal polyps?



What type of polyp is characterised by finger-like projections?



Which diagnostic method involves the use of a wire loop to remove polyps?



Peutz–Jeghers Syndrome is associated with which gene?



Which type of colorectal polyp is generally benign?



In which hereditary syndrome do patients present with hamartomatous polyps and mucocutaneous hyperpigmentation?



Which gene is linked to Juvenile Polyposis Syndrome?



What is the recommended follow-up interval for normal findings in a colonoscopy?



Dentaljuce

Dentaljuce provides Enhanced Continuing Professional Development (CPD) with GDC-approved Certificates for dental professionals worldwide.

Founded in 2009 by the award-winning Masters team from the School of Dentistry at the University of Birmingham, Dentaljuce has established itself as the leading platform for online CPD.

With over 100 high-quality online courses available for a single annual membership fee, Dentaljuce offers comprehensive e-learning designed for busy dental professionals.

The courses cover a complete range of topics, from clinical skills to patient communication, and are suitable for dentists, nurses, hygienists, therapists, students, and practice managers.

Dentaljuce features Dr. Aiden, a dentally trained AI-powered personal tutor available 24/7 to assist with queries and provide guidance through complex topics, enhancing the learning experience.

Check out our range of courses, or sign up now!

Membership Options

Dentaljuce offers a range of membership options…

Regular Membership

With enhanced CPD Certificates. Dentaljuce is brought to you by the award winning Masters team from the School of Dentistry, University of Birmingham, UK. All have won awards for web based learning and teaching and are recognised as leaders and innovators in this field, as well as being highly experienced clinical teachers. Full access to over 100 courses, no extras to pay.

Buy Now

£89.00 per year

Student Membership

No Certificates. With universities cutting down on traditional lectures, many students are currently having to rely more on online resources. If you don't need CPD Certificates, we are offering an amazing discount on your Dentaljuce personal membership fee. Special student price just £29 for 12 months individual membership.

Buy Now

£29.00 per year

Really good, very user friendly and practical.
JW

© Dentaljuce 2024 | Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy

Recording CPD time: recorded.