Conditions we treat
Colon Polyps
A colon polyp is an abnormal growth of tissue in the large bowel (colon). There are different types of colonic polyp — hyperplastic, adenomatous, inflammatory and others — and not all colon polyps are cancerous. Some polyps are precursors to cancer and can grow over a period of time to form malignant lesions, which is why the type of polyp matters as much as its presence.
Types of colon polyps
Not every polyp carries the same risk. The type is what guides what happens next.
- Hyperplastic polyps are considered harmless and are less likely to carry malignant potential.
- Adenomatous polyps are precursors to cancer. Early detection and removal can prevent cancers from developing from such lesions.
- Other types, such as inflammatory polyps, are also seen. Examination under the microscope is what separates one type from another.
How colon polyps are found and assessed
Polyps can be seen during a colonoscopy examination. A biopsy taken from the polyp is then evaluated by a pathologist under the microscope to differentiate the type of polyp, which allows the risk to be judged and the follow-up to be planned.
Colon polyp assessment in Ahmedabad
GastroPlus Digestive Disease Centre is a gastroenterology hospital group in Ahmedabad, with hospitals at Vastrapur, Nikol, Bapunagar and Bopal. If you have been advised a screening or surveillance colonoscopy, or you have symptoms that need earlier assessment, our gastroenterology team can see you at any of these units.
Frequently asked
What is a screening colonoscopy?
Screening colonoscopy is part of a health check and can be done to detect polyp-like lesions, with a biopsy taken to differentiate the polyp and judge its outlook. Routine screening colonoscopy is advised in all people over 45 years of age, and earlier if there is any family history of colon cancer.
What is a surveillance colonoscopy?
Surveillance is a part of screening and is advised in people with a family history of colon cancers and polyp syndromes, and in people who have had polyps in the colon. Colonoscopies are done at regular intervals for early detection and risk stratification, and the interval between them depends on the type and number of polyps found. Your pathologist and gastroenterologist can explain the surveillance protocol, but getting the colonoscopy done on time is the patient's own responsibility.
What are the alarming features that need an early evaluation?
If you experience any change in bowel habits such as constipation or diarrhoea, bleeding in the stool and/or abdominal pain, a colonoscopy may be needed sooner than the recommended follow-up. Contact your primary care physician immediately.
Where to go next
Need expert digestive or liver care?
Book a consultation with a GastroPlus specialist — same-day appointments available.