In a nutshell
The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of serrated polyps (tissue growths with a saw tooth appearance under the microscope) and their association with colorectal cancer (CRC).
Some background
Colorectal polyps are tissue growths on the inner lining of the large intestine. They are usually benign (non-cancerous) lesions, but in time they can turn into CRC. About 10-20% of all CRC are serrated cancers. These polyps can be followed through a test called a colonoscopy, which uses a thin tube with a camera attached to view the lining of the large intestine. It is inserted into the rectum (the final part of the bowel) and advances through the large intestine.
Methods & findings
5059 individuals without symptoms aged 50 to 69 years were followed up through colonoscopy in a controlled trial. 10.3% of these patients were diagnosed with cancerous lesions. CRC was diagnosed in 27 patients (0.5%), advanced polyps in 9.7% of the patients while non-advanced polyps were found in 22.1% of the cases. 20% of the patients had serrated polyps and the average number of polyps per patients was 2. Patients with large serrated polyps (10 mm or larger) had a 2.5 times higher risk of developing cancerous lesions compared to patients who had smaller polyps.
The bottom line
In conclusion, in average-risk individuals, large serrated colorectal polyps were associated with a higher risk of developing CRC.
The fine print
One of the main limitations of the study was lack of a unique protocol in the diagnosis of serrated polyps for the pathologists. Another aspect is the fact that the chosen population was of average risk, therefore the number of patients with CRC was relatively small.
What’s next?
Visit your doctor for regular check-ups.
Published By :
Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Date :
Apr 29, 2013
