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Endoscopy 2002; 34(3): 226-236
DOI: 10.1055/s-2002-20296
Review

© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

Classification of Colorectal Polyps: Guidelines for the Endoscopist

C.  A.  Rubio 1 , E.  Jaramillo 2 , A.  Lindblom 3 , F.  Fogt 4
  • 1Gastrointestinal and Liver Pathology Research Laboratory, Department of Pathology, Karolinska Institute and Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
  • 2Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Karolinska Institute and Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
  • 3Department of Molecular Medicine and Clinical Genetics, Karolinska Institute and Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
  • 4Presbyterian Medical Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
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Publication History

Publication Date:
22 February 2002 (online)

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Introduction

Polyp is a Greek word used to denote a protruding excrescence linked to a mucous membrane by a pedicle. Today we know that the pedicle evolves as a result of peristaltic activity which projects forward a protruding polyp of substantial size growing on loose submucosal tissue. On the basis of clinical data, colorectal polyps are classified as sporadic or hereditary. Sporadic colorectal polyps evolve after environmental insults of long duration. Consequently they are age-related and often seen in older patients. Polyps generated as a result of a genetic predisposition, are often found in younger patients.

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C. A. Rubio, M.D., Ph.D.

Gastrointestinal and Liver Pathology Research Laboratory · Department of Pathology Karolinska Institute

17176 Stockholm · Sweden

Fax: + 46-8-51774524

Email: Carlos.Rubio@onkpat.ki.se