How long before polyps become cancerous

Larger serrated polyps, which are typically flat sessile , difficult to detect and located in the upper colon, are precancerous. Inflammatory polyps most often occur in people who have inflammatory bowel disease IBD. These types of polyps are also known as pseudopolyps because they are not true polyps, but rather develop as a reaction to chronic inflammation in the colon. Inflammatory polyps are benign and generally do not carry the risk of developing into colon cancer.

Approximately 15 percent of polyps detected in colon cancer screening are villous or tubulovillous adenomas. This type of polyp carries a high risk of turning cancerous. They are commonly sessile, which makes them more difficult to remove. Smaller villous adenoma polyps may be removed during a colonoscopy, while larger polyps of this type may require surgery for complete removal. Polyps can be detected and safely removed during a colonoscopy, preventing them from turning into cancer.

Large polyps may require more than one treatment, and in some patients surgery could be required for complete removal. If you have an increased risk for colon polyps, talk with your doctor about the types and frequency of tests that will be best for you. To schedule an appointment to discuss treatment options for colon and rectal polyps, call us at Updated visitor guidelines. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.

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