Abbreviations
ACG:
American College of Gastroenterology
AFAP:
attenuated familial adenomatous polyposis
APC
:
adenomatous polyposis coli
CRC:
colorectal cancer
DBE:
double-balloon enteroscopy
EGD:
esophagogastroduodenoscopy
EMR:
endoscopic mucosal resection
ESGE:
European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
ESPGHAN:
European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition
EUS:
endoscopic ultrasonography
FAP:
familial adenomatous polyposis
GI:
gastrointestinal
GRADE:
Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation
HD:
high definition
HHT:
hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia
IDUS:
intraductal ultrasound
JPS:
juvenile polyposis syndrome
MAP:
MUTYH-associated polyposis
MRI-E:
magnetic resonance imaging enteroclysis/ enterography
NBI:
narrow-band imaging
OR:
odds ratio
PJS:
Peutz–Jeghers syndrome
RCT:
randomized controlled trial
RR:
relative risk
SPS:
serrated polyposis syndrome
VCE:
video capsule endoscopy
WLE:
white-light endoscopy
This Guideline is an official statement of the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE). The Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system was adopted to define the strength of recommendations and the quality of evidence.
Introduction
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the fourth most incident cancer and is the second commonest cause of cancer-related death in Europe [1]. While the majority of CRC is sporadic, twin studies have shown that up to 35 % of CRC cases have a familial component [2]. Approximately 2 % – 5 % of CRC cases are genetically determined by mutations in the adenomatous polyposis coli (APC), MUTYH, DNA mismatch repair, or other predisposing genes [3].
Although hereditary CRC syndromes are rare, it is of great importance that clinicians recognize these syndromes so they can make appropriate management decisions for both the patient and their family members who may also be at risk. Because all patients with polyposis syndrome are at high risk of developing gastrointestinal (GI) malignancies, endoscopic surveillance and interventions are required to prevent the development of cancer or to detect cancer at an early stage. Currently, there is uncertainty about the surveillance intervals and optimal endoscopic management, and guidelines regarding polyposis syndromes are limited. Therefore, the aim of this evidence-based and consensus guideline, commissioned by the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE), is to provide clinicians with a comprehensive overview of the management options regarding endoscopic surveillance and interventions for the most important polyposis syndromes, namely familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), MUTYH-associated polyposis (MAP), Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS), juvenile polyposis syndrome (JPS), and serrated polyposis syndrome (SPS) (overview shown in [Table 1] [4]
[5]
[6]
[7]
[8]
[9]
[10]
[11]
[12]
[13]
[14]
[15]
[16]
[17]
[18]
[19]
[20]
[21]
[22]
[23]
[24]
[25]
[26]
[27]
[28]).
Table 1
Overview of polyposis syndromes.
Polyp subtype
|
Polyposis syndrome
|
Gene
|
Germline mutation found
|
Incidence
|
Clinical criteria
|
CRC risk
|
References
|
Adenomatous
|
Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP)
|
APC
|
70 % – 90 %
|
1 in 10 000
|
Classic: > 100 adenomas in colon/rectum at age 25
|
100 %
|
[4]
[5]
[23]
[24]
|
Attenuated: < 100 adenomas in colon/rectum at age 25
|
69 %
|
MUTYH-associated polyposis (MAP)
|
MUTYH
|
16 % – 40 %
|
1 – 4 in 10 000
|
20 – 100 adenomas in colon/rectum
|
19 % – 43 %
|
[6]
[25]
[26]
|
Hamartomatous
|
Peutz–Jeghers syndrome (PJS)
|
STK11/LKB1
|
80 % – 94 %
|
1 in 250 000
|
1 ≥ 2 histologically confirmed Peutz–Jeghers polyps
2 any number of Peutz–Jeghers polyps in an individual with a positive family history of PJS
3 presence of characteristic mucocutaneous pigmentations in an individual with a positive family history of PJS
4 any number of Peutz–Jeghers polyps in an individual with characteristic mucocutaneous pigmentation
|
15 % – 57 %
|
[7]
[8]
[9]
[27]
[28]
|
Juvenile polyposis syndrome (JPS)
|
SMAD4, BMPR1A
|
40 % – 60 %
|
1 – 1.6 in 100 000
|
1 ≥ 5 juvenile polyps are present in the colon/rectum or in other parts of the gastrointestinal tract
2 any number of juvenile polyps in a patient with one or more relatives affected with JPS
|
39 % – 68 %
|
[10]
[11]
[12]
[13]
|
Serrated
|
Serrated polyposis syndrome (SPS)
|
No germline mutation identified
|
NA
|
31 – 80 in 10 000 in FIT screening 42 in 10 000 in colonoscopy screening
|
1 ≥ 5 serrated polyps proximal to the sigmoid with ≥ 2 being > 10 mm
2 > 20 serrated polyps of any size distributed throughout the colon
|
15 % – 30 %
|
[14]
[15]
[16]
[17]
[18]
[19]
[20]
[21]
[22]
|
FIT, fecal immunochemical test; NA, not applicable.
There are several other polyposis-associated genes, including PTEN, GREM1, POLE/POLD1, and biallelic NTHL1, that will not be discussed in this guideline because of their low prevalence. A second guideline will focus on the endoscopic management of familial and hereditary non-polyposis syndromes.
Methods
The ESGE commissioned this guideline (chair J.v.H.) and appointed a guideline leader (M.v.L.), who invited the listed authors to participate in the project development. The key questions were prepared by the coordinating team (M.v.L. and V.R.) and were then approved by the other members. The coordinating team formed task force subgroups, each with its own leader, and divided the key topics among these task forces (Appendix 1 s; see online-only Supplementary Material).
The process of developing the guideline included telephone conferences, meetings, and online and face-to-face discussions among the guideline committee members from July 2018 to June 2019. Searches were performed in MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane. Articles were selected through title and abstract screening, followed by full-text screening. The results of the search were presented to all members of the guideline committee and statements were created by consensus. Evidence levels and recommendation strengths were assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) system [29]. Further details on the methodology of ESGE guideline development have been reported elsewhere [30].
In May 2019, a draft prepared by M.v.L. and V.R. was sent to all group members. After the agreement of all group members had been obtained, the manuscript was reviewed by a member of the ESGE governing board and an external reviewer, and was sent for further comments to the ESGE national societies and individual members. After this, it was submitted to Endoscopy for publication.
This guideline was issued in 2019 and will be considered for update in 2024. Any interim updates will be noted on the ESGE website: http://www.esge.com/esge-guidelines.html.
As literature on polyposis syndromes is limited, a Delphi procedure was organized within the guideline committee, consisting of two rounds, in order to gain consensus [31]. All guideline committee members, except for the research fellow, were asked to complete the online Delphi questionnaire in isolation, and responses were anonymized to prevent participants from influencing each other [32]. In each round, all the guideline committee members were first asked to rate all the statements with their level of agreement using a seven-point Likert scale: “Very strongly agree,” “Strongly agree,” “Agree,” “Neither agree nor disagree,” Disagree,” “Strongly disagree,” or “Very strongly disagree” [33]. If the statement was not their area of expertise, participants had the option to opt out. Secondly, participants were asked if the statement was clear and had the opportunity to write down their suggestions for improvement. After the first round of Delphi voting, all statements were discussed and adjusted if necessary during a face-to-face meeting. Consensus was reached when ≥ 80 % of the guideline committee members had voted either “Very strongly agree,” “Strongly agree,” or “Agree” during the second round of the Delphi procedure.
1 General recommendations for patients with a polyposis syndrome
1 General recommendations for patients with a polyposis syndrome
ESGE recommends that individuals with hereditary gastrointestinal polyposis syndromes should be surveilled in dedicated units that provide monitoring of compliance and endoscopic performance measures.
Strong recommendation, moderate quality of evidence, level of agreement 90 %.
ESGE recommends performing esophagogastroduodenoscopy, small-bowel examination, and/or colonoscopy earlier than the planned surveillance procedure if a patient is symptomatic.
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 100 %.
Management of patients with polyposis syndrome is challenging. Strict follow-up of these patients with high quality endoscopy and polypectomy is essential. It has been proven that provision of healthcare services is more effective when delivered in an organized and coordinated system [34].
Data from the Danish polyposis registry showed a significantly lower CRC risk in call-up cases compared with probands who were not under surveillance. The tracing and follow-up program increased life expectancy by 17.0 years [35]. For these reasons, polyposis patients should be followed in dedicated units (national registries, genetic counseling centers, or high risk cancer centers) where endoscopic surveillance recommendations are monitored and audited, in order to improve adherence and provide the highest quality of care.
Surveillance intervals are provided in this guideline, but for patients with specific complaints, such as anemia, rectal blood loss, or abdominal pain, endoscopic interventions should be performed when indicated and not postponed to the next surveillance examination.
[Table 2] and [Table 3] provide a summary of all of the statements, including starting age and interval of endoscopic surveillance
Table 2
Summary table of colonoscopy surveillance statements.
Polyposis syndrome
|
Starting age
|
Surveillance interval
|
Treatment indication
|
(Attenuated) familial adenomatous polyposis
|
12 – 14 years
|
Every 1 – 2 years
|
Pre- and post-colectomy: remove all polyps > 5 mm
|
MUTYH-associated polyposis
|
18 years
|
Every 1 – 2 years
|
Pre- and post-colectomy: remove all polyps > 5 mm
|
Peutz–Jeghers syndrome
|
Baseline: 8 years Routine: 18 years
|
Baseline: if polyps found, every 1 – 3 years Routine: every 1 – 3 years
|
Elective polypectomy
|
Juvenile polyposis syndrome
|
12 – 15 years
|
Every 1 – 3 years
|
Elective polypectomy for polyps > 10 mm
|
Serrated polyposis syndrome
|
NA
|
1 year: after ≥ 1 advanced polyp or ≥ 5 non-advanced clinically relevant polyps 2 years: after no advanced polyps or < 5 non-advanced clinically relevant polyps
|
Clearing/surveillance phase: remove all polyps ≥ 5 mm and all polyps of any size with optical suspicion of dysplasia
|
NA, not applicable.
Table 3
Summary table of gastric and small-bowel surveillance statements.
Polyposis syndrome
|
Modality
|
Starting age
|
Surveillance interval
|
Treatment indication
|
(Attenuated) familial adenomatous polyposis
|
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy
|
25 years
|
According to Spigelman score, adjusted for appearance of the ampulla
|
Non-ampullary adenomas: considerer endoscopic resection of adenomas ≥ 10 mm Ampullary adenomas: consider discussing endoscopic treatment in a multidisciplinary setting for adenomas ≥ 10 mm, showing excessive growth, or with suspicion of invasive growth
|
MUTYH-associated polyposis
|
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy
|
35 years
|
According to Spigelman score, adjusted for appearance of the ampulla
|
Non-ampullary adenomas: considerer endoscopic resection of adenomas ≥ 10 mm Ampullary adenomas: consider discussing endoscopic treatment in a multidisciplinary setting for adenomas ≥ 10 mm, showing excessive growth, or with suspicion of invasive growth
|
Peutz–Jeghers syndrome
|
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy
|
Baseline: 8 years Routine: 18 years
|
Baseline: if polyps found, every 1 – 3 years Routine: every 1 – 3 years
|
Elective polypectomy
|
MRI studies or video capsule enteroscopy
|
8 years
|
Every 1 – 3 years
|
Elective polypectomy for polyps > 15 – 20 mm, preferably using device-assisted enteroscopy
|
Juvenile polyposis syndrome: SMAD4 mutation carriers
|
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy
|
18 years
|
Every 1 – 3 years
|
Gastric management should be discussed in a multidisciplinary setting
|
Juvenile polyposis syndrome: BMPR1A mutation carriers
|
Esophagogastroduodenoscopy
|
25 years
|
Every 1 – 3 years
|
Gastric management should be discussed in a multidisciplinary setting
|
Serrated polyposis syndrome
|
NA
|
NA
|
NA
|
NA
|
MRI, magnetic resonance imaging; NA, not applicable.
2 Familial adenomatous polyposis and MUTYH-associated polyposis
2 Familial adenomatous polyposis and MUTYH-associated polyposis
2.1 Background
FAP is caused by an autosomal dominant mutation in the APC gene [36] ([Table 1]). The disease is characterized by the development of up to 100 – 1000 adenomas throughout the colon and rectum, and is also associated with extracolonic manifestations [4]. When the disease is left untreated, the cumulative risk of developing CRC is 100 % at a median age of 35 – 45 years [4]. Attenuated FAP (AFAP; arbitrarily defined as < 100 adenomas) is associated with a later onset of CRC and the absolute risk is thought to be lower than in those with a classical phenotype (> 100 adenomas) [5]. Duodenal adenomatosis is the most frequent extracolonic manifestation in FAP, and there are no robust data demonstrating that those with AFAP have a different duodenal phenotype to those with classical FAP. Approximately 10 % – 30 % of the patients with (attenuated) polyposis phenotype will remain without a detectable mutation. In these patients we suggest they be treated according to their clinical diagnosis.
There is no clear cutoff for referring an individual with a history of colorectal adenomatous polyps for genetic testing. The guideline of the American College of Gastroenterology advises referral for individuals with a history of 10 adenomatous polyps [37]. The Dutch guideline uses 10 or more colorectal adenomatous polyps in patients aged under 60 and 20 or more in those aged under 70 as a cutoff for referral [38].
The other main adenomatous polyposis syndrome is MAP, which is caused by a biallelic mutation in the MUTYH gene. Although there is significant phenotypic overlap with FAP, MAP is often associated with a lower number of colorectal polyps and a later age of onset, although significant phenotypic variation is observed [39]
[40]. The lifetime risk for CRC in MAP patients ranges from 19 % to 43 % [6].
2.2 Colonoscopy surveillance
ESGE recommends that colonoscopy surveillance in asymptomatic individuals with familial adenomatous polyposis should start at the age of 12 – 14 years.
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 90 %.
ESGE recommends that colonoscopy surveillance of individuals with familial adenomatous polyposis with an intact colon should be performed every 1 – 2 years depending on the polyp burden.
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 90 %.
Compared with sporadic cancers, FAP is characterized by extremely early and multifocal carcinogenesis. However, the adenoma–carcinoma sequence is not accelerated, with adenomas taking up to 15 years to become malignant. Studies in patients with known APC mutation or clinical polyposis have shown that the median age of polyp development is 12 – 17 years [41]
[42]
[43]
[44]
[45]. In addition, the CRC rate below the age of 20 years is very low, approximately 1.3 % [46].
Data also indicate that the APC mutation site may affect the severity of disease and cancer development. However, there is a wide spectrum of colorectal polyp burden in FAP and AFAP and care needs to be personalized [5]. Therefore, we recommend starting colonoscopy surveillance at age 12 – 14 years.
Active endoscopic surveillance is associated with a subsequent reduction of CRC incidence and mortality, mostly due to timely early surgical intervention. Studies showed that 47 % – 69 % of symptomatic FAP patients were diagnosed with CRC, as opposed to 2 % – 4 % of relatives with FAP in whom CRC was found during screening [47]
[48].
ESGE recommends that colonoscopy surveillance should start at the age of 18 years in asymptomatic individuals with MUTYH-associated polyposis.
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 90 %.
ESGE recommends that colonoscopy surveillance of individuals with MUTYH-associated polyposis with intact colons should be performed every 1 – 2 years depending on the polyp burden.
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 90 %.
In 16 % – 40 % of the individuals with 20 – 100 adenomas in whom FAP was excluded, a MUTYH mutation was found [37]. Furthermore, biallelic MUTYH mutations are found in 7.5 % to 12.5 % of patients with > 100 adenomas in whom a disease-causing APC mutation is not found [6]. Nieuwenhuis et al. demonstrated that colorectal polyposis was diagnosed at a mean age of 44.8 years in 254 biallelic MUTYH mutation carriers, while CRC was diagnosed in 58 % of these individuals at an average age of 48.5 years [49]. Furthermore, these patients had an 11 % risk of developing metachronous CRC within 5 years after surgery, suggesting that biallelic MUTYH mutation carriers may have accelerated carcinogenesis.
Patients with a monoallelic MUTYH mutation do not develop adenomatous polyposis. They do however seem to have a slightly elevated risk of developing CRC compared with the general population, although this is not sufficient to warrant enhanced surveillance. The management of these individuals should be the same as for those in the general population [50]
[51].
2.3 Management of colorectal neoplasia in patients with an intact colon
ESGE suggests that endoscopic management of colorectal adenomas alone is not recommended in individuals with familial adenomatous polyposis/MUTYH-associated polyposis. It may be considered in individuals who have an attenuated phenotype, provided that high quality surveillance and robust recall systems are in place.
Weak recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 60 %.
ESGE suggests that, in individuals with familial adenomatous polyposis/MUTYH-associated polyposis who are not in need of immediate colectomy and are manageable by endoscopy, all polyps > 5 mm be removed.
Weak recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 90 %.
ESGE suggests that the timing and type of surgery in individuals with familial adenomatous polyposis/MUTYH-associated polyposis should be discussed in a multidisciplinary setting, thereby taking into account the sex (fertility), polyp burden, extensiveness of rectal involvement, personal and family history of desmoid disease, and mutation site in the context of social, personal, and educational factors.
Weak recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 90 %.
There are no data indicating that endoscopic polypectomy alone is an appropriate management strategy for patients with FAP. (Laparoscopic) prophylactic surgery is considered the standard of care. Most studies reveal a very narrow window between the diagnosis of colonic polyposis and surgery [43]
[45]. However, postponing surgery might be considered based on overall polyp burden, in particular in those with an attenuated phenotype. Some patients with mild polyposis may even be managed endoscopically.
Furthermore, colectomy with ileorectal anastomosis instead of proctocolectomy with ileo-pouch anal anastomosis can be considered if the polyp burden in the rectum is relatively limited (usually < 20 adenomas). The choice of surgery should take into account a personal or family history of desmoid disease or a germline mutation predisposing to desmoids [52]. In addition, prophylactic surgery should be personalized based on patient preference and after a thorough discussion of the implications for quality of life and fertility.
Chemoprevention has been proposed as a potential strategy to reduce polyp burden. Until now, no single chemoprevention drug has an approved indication for the management of FAP or MAP [53]. Therefore, endoscopic management and, if necessary, subsequent prophylactic surgery remain the standard of care.
2.4 Surveillance and management of colorectal neoplasia after (procto)colectomy
ESGE recommends endoscopic surveillance of the rectum or pouch every 1 – 2 years in individuals with familial adenomatous polyposis/MUTYH-associated polyposis depending on the polyp burden.
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 90 %.
ESGE recommends endoscopic removal of all polyps > 5 mm during surveillance of the rectum or pouch in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis/MUTYH-associated polyposis.
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 100 %.
ESGE recommends all polyps be endoscopically removed at the anal transitional zone (rectal cuff) after proctocolectomy and ileo-pouch anal anastomosis.
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 89 %.
In FAP patients with total colectomy and ileorectal anastomosis, the incidence of cancer development in the rectal remnant is the biggest concern [54]. The cumulative risk of rectal cancer varies from 11 % to 24 % [55]
[56]
[57], while the cumulative risk of dying from rectal cancer is between 9 % and 12.5 % [55]
[58]. Four independent predictors of progressive rectal disease have been described: rectal polyp count exceeding 20 or colonic polyp count of 500 or more prior to colectomy, APC mutation at codons 1250 – 1450, and age less than 25 years at the time of surgery [57].
In FAP patients with proctocolectomy and ileo-pouch anal anastomosis, the incidence of cancer in the pouch is lower than that in the rectal cuff [59]. In a systematic review including 92 pouch-related cancers, 23 cancers (25 %) developed in the pouch and 69 (75 %) in the anal transitional zone [60]. In a large series of 206 patients with FAP who underwent proctocolectomy with ileo-pouch anal anastomosis, the risk of developing adenomas in the pouch was 22 % in the mucosectomy with handsewn anastomosis group, while 51 % developed adenomas in the rectal remnant and/or pouch after stapled ileo-pouch anal anastomosis (median follow-up 10.3 years) [61]. Other studies have shown that mucosectomy handsewn anastomosis is associated with a lower risk of adenomas [59]
[62]. Retroflexion in the rectum should always be performed to adequately explore the anal transitional zone.
Evidence on how to manage polyps in the rectal remnant or pouch, and the appropriate interval between endoscopies is scarce. Some experts have shown that, even in severe cases of rectal polyposis, polyp burden in the rectal remnant can be effectively reduced by cold snare polypectomies and endoscopic submucosal resections [63]
[64]. One study recommends the use of argon plasma coagulation, but without evidence of its effect on cancer prevention [65].
2.5 Duodenal surveillance and management
ESGE recommends that individuals with familial adenomatous polyposis start endoscopic duodenal surveillance at the age of 25 years.
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 100 %.
ESGE recommends thorough inspection and description of the duodenum and ampullary site at every surveillance esophagogastroduodenoscopy in individuals with familial adenomatous polyposis/MUTYH-associated polyposis. The duodenal surveillance interval should be determined on the basis of polyp characteristics.
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 100 %.
ESGE suggests considering endoscopic resection of non-ampullary duodenal adenomas ≥ 10 mm in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis/MUTYH-associated polyposis.
Weak recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 90 %.
ESGE suggests duodenal polyps and the ampulla should be biopsied only if they are not amenable to endoscopic removal, either because they are too large or because there is a suspicion of invasive growth.
Weak recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 89 %.
Individuals with FAP are also at high risk for developing duodenal adenomas. In 30 % – 92 % of FAP patients, duodenal adenomas are detected, with a lifetime risk approaching 100 % [66]
[67]
[68]
[69]
[70]. However, only a minority of patients develop duodenal cancer, with a cumulative risk ranging from 4 % to 10 % by the age of 60 [66]
[69]
[70]
[71]
[72]
[73]. The median age at duodenal cancer diagnosis varied from 52 to 67 years [67]
[69]
[74]
[75]
[76]. Regular duodenal surveillance and prophylactic surgery has resulted in a significantly improved prognosis in FAP patients [74].
During esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), the severity of duodenal polyposis is assessed using the Spigelman classification system ([Table 4]). Scores for the number, size, histology, and grade of dysplasia of the duodenal adenomas result in a Spigelman stage varying from I to IV [77]. Several risk factors for developing duodenal cancer are acknowledged: age; Spigelman stage IV at first endoscopy; duodenal polyps ≥ 10 mm or containing high grade dysplasia; and ampullary adenomas with high grade dysplasia, a (tubulo)villous component, or high grade dysplasia [67]
[70]
[74]
[75]
[76]. To obtain all components of the Spigelman score, pathology results are needed; however, routine biopsies of duodenal polyps may interfere with optical diagnosis and future endoscopic resection because of fibrosis. Therefore, taking routine biopsies is currently not recommended. If endoscopic removal is not necessary because the adenomas are small and there is no suspicion of invasive growth, the Spigelman stage should be determined based on previous pathology reports or optical diagnosis to determine the severity of duodenal polyposis and the surveillance interval. The site of the ampulla in particular should be evaluated and reported accurately, as this is a location of preference for adenoma and cancer development [78].
Table 4
Spigelman Score, adapted from Spigelman et al. [77]. a Points awarded in the calculation of Spigelman score.
Findings at duodenoscopy
|
1 point
|
2 points
|
3 points
|
Number of adenomas
|
1 – 4
|
5 – 20
|
> 20
|
Size, mm
|
1 – 4
|
5 – 10
|
> 10
|
Histology[*]
|
Tubular
|
Tubulovillous
|
Villous
|
Dysplasia[*]
|
Low grade
|
NA
|
High grade
|
* Based on pathology obtained for complete endoscopic removal of duodenal polyps or prior pathology results.
Table 4
Spigelman Score, adapted from Spigelman et al. [77]. b Recommended surveillance interval on the basis of the Spigelman score.
Spigelman score
|
Spigelman stage
|
Surveillance interval[*]
|
0 points
|
0
|
5 years
|
1 – 4 points
|
I
|
5 years
|
5 – 6 points
|
II
|
3 years
|
7 – 8 points
|
III
|
1 year
|
9 – 12 points
|
IV
|
6 months, consider (endoscopic or surgical) treatment
|
* Additional adjustment based on inspection of the ampullary region.
The surveillance interval should be based both on the Spigelman stage and on separate judgment of the ampulla, with surveillance adapted to the shortest interval. For a normal ampulla, a surveillance interval of 5 years seems safe; for adenomatous changes in an ampulla < 10 mm, a surveillance interval of 3 years; and for an ampulla ≥ 10 mm, a surveillance interval of 1 year is proposed. Cap-assisted endoscopy has been shown to effectively visualize the ampulla in 95 % of FAP patients, avoiding the need for additional side-viewing endoscopy and causing less burden for the patient [79]. The indications for biopsy need to be carefully considered and biopsies should not be taken routinely as biopsies of the ampulla may result in pancreatitis.
Nine widely varying, small single-center studies, including 6 – 35 patients, described the effect of endoscopic removal of non-ampullary duodenal adenomas in FAP patients [80]
[81]
[82]
[83]
[84]
[85]
[86]
[87]
[88]. The most frequently reported complications were (intraprocedural) bleeding and mild post-procedural abdominal pain [81]
[82]
[83]
[88]. During follow-up, ranging from 18 months to 9.9 years, one case of duodenal cancer was observed in a patient who had refused endoscopic surveillance after suffering a severe post-polypectomy bleed [80]
[81]
[84]
[87]
[88]. Recurrence rates at the resection scar of non-ampullary duodenal adenomas varied widely from 22 % to 100 % [84]
[85]
[87]
[88].
In one study, 35 FAP patients with Spigelman stage IV duodenal polyposis were treated with argon plasma coagulation for small and flat adenomas and endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) for sessile and flat adenomas over 10 mm [86]. In this study, Spigelman scores decreased in 95 % of the patients. Furthermore, a modeling analysis revealed a 60 % decrease in mean Spigelman score after 150 months [86]. However, Balmforth et al. showed that downstaging of Spigelman IV patients resulted in an increased rate of duodenal disease progression compared with the patients with primary disease progression [89]. Surveillance interval after duodenal polypectomy needs to be determined by the expert endoscopist. There is a lack of data and a need to better understand the biology of duodenal and ampullary adenomas and cancer in order to develop a new system to stratify cancer risk.
ESGE recommends starting endoscopic duodenal surveillance in individuals with MUTYH-associated polyposis at 35 years of age.
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 90 %.
In MAP, the prevalence of duodenal adenomas is lower than in individuals with FAP, with 17 % – 34 % at a median age of 50 years [90]
[91]. Only 6 % of these patients with MAP developed ampullary disease [90]. Because duodenal polyposis occurs later in life and with a slower progression than in individuals with FAP, duodenal surveillance may commence at a higher age. Walton et al. showed that only 8 of 92 MAP patients (9 %) underwent an endoscopic intervention, starting at 38 years [90]. In this series, two duodenal cancers were diagnosed in patients with MAP over the age of 60 years who were not undergoing surveillance [90]. Duodenal cancers in MAP patients can often occur without significant duodenal polyp burden [90]
[92].
ESGE suggests treatment for individuals with familial adenomatous polyposis/MUTYH-associated polyposis who have ampullary adenomas ≥ 10 mm showing excessive growth or suspicion of invasive growth should be discussed in a multidisciplinary setting.
Weak recommendations, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 100 %.
Duodenal polyps in FAP and MAP often occur in the region of the ampulla [78]. To prevent ampullary cancer, endoscopic ampullectomy can be performed in individuals with adenomatous changes of the ampulla. However, ampullectomy is associated with severe complications, therefore benefits and harms should be weighed in an experienced multidisciplinary setting. The effect of endoscopic ampullectomy has been evaluated in three small observational studies, including 8 – 28 FAP patients [93]
[94]
[95]. In these series, complication rates such as pancreatitis (19 % – 20 %), bleeding (4 % – 13 %), and abdominal pain (8 %) were high [93]
[94]. Recurrence at the site of ampullectomy occurred in 0 – 67 % of the cases after a follow-up ranging from 53 to 85 months with no evidence of ampullary cancer [93]
[94]
[95]. In one study of 15 FAP patients, two (13 %) required surgery after multiple repeated endoscopic resections [93].
Finally, if endoscopic ampullectomy is indicated but not possible in an expert center, the patient should be referred for surgical intervention.
ESGE suggests that endoscopic ultrasonography should not be routinely performed in the pretherapeutic evaluation of ampullary adenomas in individuals with familial adenomatous polyposis/MUTYH-associated polyposis. It may be considered for assessment of large or suspicious ampullas to help exclude invasive growth.
Weak recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 89 %.
In the literature, endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) for the pretherapeutic staging of ampullary tumors has focused mainly on advanced ampullary cancers. One study focusing on ampullary adenomas in 38 FAP patients showed no EUS utility, with no information on duct involvement [93]. A comparison of preoperative staging of ampullary tumors showed comparable accuracy of EUS and intraductal ultrasound (IDUS), with an accuracy of 63 % (EUS) and 78 % (IDUS), in particular for advanced stages [96]. On the other hand, over-staging at EUS/IDUS occurred in 25 % – 40 % of cases of benign adenoma or early cancers [96]
[97]
[98]. Therefore, EUS and IDUS present limitations in the pretherapeutic evaluation of ampullary tumors, with over-staging of early and even benign lesions.
ESGE recommends performing thorough gastric assessment at the time of duodenal surveillance. If gastric adenomas are suspected, endoscopic resection is recommended, or surgical resection if endoscopically unresectable.
Strong recommendation, moderate quality of evidence, level of agreement 100 %.
In patients with FAP, fundic gland polyps are reported in 20 % – 88 % [99]
[100]. Fundic gland polyps are thought to have little tendency for malignant transformation. On the other hand, gastric adenomas are considered to have a premalignant potential, given that 8 % – 14 % of gastric adenomas harbor high grade dysplasia [101]
[102]. Historically, the risk of developing gastric cancer among Western FAP patients was not found to be higher than the general population [102]
[103]
[104]. However, two recent series from Western countries, described 17 cases of gastric cancer, with a median age at diagnosis between 50 and 60 years [102]
[103]. In both series, the proximal cancers were associated with carpeting fundic gland polyposis, which can make identification of the premalignant adenoma extremely difficult. These findings suggest that identification and resection of gastric adenomas are important to prevent the development of gastric cancer, but currently there are no data as to whether or not this is effective.
ESGE recommends that prophylactic duodenectomy in familial adenomatous polyposis/MUTYH-associated polyposis should be reserved for those patients with the most advanced disease, which cannot be endoscopically managed.
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 100 %.
Two retrospective studies reported that 4 % – 6 % of the FAP patients had been surgically treated for duodenal polyposis, describing mortality rates after pancreas-preserving duodenectomy ranging from 5 % to 33 % [105]
[106]. The in-hospital morbidity was 49 %, without differences between patients with benign adenomatosis and cancer [106]. After duodenectomy, adenomas occurred in 78 % of the FAP patients in the neo-duodenum after a mean of 46 months, indicating the need for endoscopic surveillance in these patients [107]. Therefore, it is crucial that the neo-duodenum is accessible for endoscopic surveillance.
3 Peutz–Jeghers syndrome
3.1 Background
PJS is characterized by the development of hamartomatous polyps [3]. PJS is diagnosed using clinical criteria ([Table 1]) or by a pathogenic germline mutation in the serine threonine kinase 11 tumor suppressor gene (STK11/LKB1 gene), which is found in 80 % – 94 % of PJS patients [7]. Individuals with perioral or buccal pigmentation and/or two or more GI hamartomatous polyp(s) or a family history of PJS should be referred for genetic testing [37].
The predominant clinical feature of PJS is GI polyposis, most often found in the small bowel (60 % – 90 %), where they may cause bleeding, anemia, and intussusception [108]
[109]. The cumulative risk of GI cancers (excluding pancreatic cancer) has been reported to be around 33 % at the age of 60, increasing to 57 % at the age of 70 years [8]. However, data are often historical, retrospective, and subject to bias that probably overestimates the cancer risk.
Surveillance of the GI tract in PJS patients has two purposes: (i) to detect GI polyps that may cause complications (bleeding, anemia, intussusception) and should be removed (in particular small-bowel polyp-related complications are the predominant clinical problem) [110]
[111]; (ii) to detect cancer (mainly occurring in adults) at an early stage [9].
3.2 Esophagogastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy surveillance
ESGE recommends a baseline esophagogastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy at the age of 8 years in asymptomatic individuals with Peutz–Jeghers syndrome.
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 100 %.
ESGE recommends starting routine esophagogastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy surveillance at the age of 18 if the baseline endoscopy is negative.
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 100 %.
ESGE recommends an interval of 1 – 3 years based on phenotype for esophagogastroduodenoscopy and colonoscopy.
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 100 %.
Most studies about cancer risk in PJS patients are single-center cohort studies and rather small, which may overestimate the cancer risk because of ascertainment bias. Giardiello et al. performed a systematic review including 210 PJS patients from six studies and reported a cumulative risk of gastric cancer of 29 % at 15 – 64 years of age, with a relative risk (RR) of 213 (95 % confidence interval [CI] 96 – 368) compared with the general population [112]. The average age of gastric cancer diagnosis was 30 – 40 years [9]
[113]. The cumulative risk of colon cancer was 39 % at 15 – 64 years of age, with an RR of 84 (95 %CI 47 – 137) [113]
[114]
[115].
There are no prospective studies evaluating the effect of surveillance strategies for gastric cancer, duodenal cancer, or CRC. Furthermore, there is no evidence regarding the type and frequency of surveillance and starting/stopping age. Hamartomas are predominantly found in the small bowel and colon and only seldomly give rise to complications in the esophagus or stomach. Latchford et al. evaluated 28 PJS patients who had undergone one or more surveillance endoscopies by the age of 18 [111]. In 17 patients a significant gastroduodenal or colonic polyp was found, including 20 gastroduodenal polyps over 10 mm [111]. In this series, no PJS patients were observed to develop GI cancer. Furthermore, dysplasia or atypia was very rarely observed.
3.3 Small–bowel surveillance
ESGE recommends small-bowel surveillance from the age of 8 years in asymptomatic individuals with Peutz–Jeghers syndrome.
Strong recommendation, moderate quality of evidence, level of agreement 100 %.
ESGE recommends an interval of 1 – 3 years based on phenotype for small-bowel surveillance.
Strong recommendation, moderate quality of evidence, level of agreement 100 %.
ESGE recommends either MRI studies or video capsule enteroscopy for small-bowel surveillance.
Strong recommendation, moderate quality of evidence, level of agreement 89 %.
Symptoms related to small-bowel polyps are frequent and intussusception is seen by the age of 10 in 33 % and by the age of 20 in 50 % of PJS patients [110]. The cumulative risk of small-bowel cancer was 13 %, with an RR of 520 (95 %CI 220 – 1306) [113]. The average age of diagnosis of small-bowel cancer was 37 – 42 years [9]
[113]. However, it is difficult to interpret these data because of the small studies, which may overestimate cancer risk due to ascertainment bias, and misinterpretation of pseudoinvasion as cancer.
Currently, magnetic resonance imaging enteroclysis/enterography (MRI-E) and video capsule endoscopy (VCE) are the most used imaging modalities for detection of polyps in the small bowel [109]
[116]
[117]
[118]
[119]. There are four studies that have compared MRI-E and VCE, including a total of 47 patients with PJS [118]
[119]
[120]
[121]. Gupta et al. [118] did not find a significant difference between the two modalities for the detection of clinically relevant polyps (> 10 mm), as opposed to Urquhart et al. [119], who showed superiority for VCE over MRI-E. Both modalities do miss clinically relevant polyps (> 15 – 20 mm or smaller polyps that do give rise to symptoms). Based on the current literature, both VCE and MRI-E are reasonable options for small-bowel surveillance.
3.4 Management of small-bowel polyps
ESGE recommends that elective polypectomy should be performed for small-bowel polyps > 15 – 20 mm to prevent intussusception. In a symptomatic patient, smaller polyps causing obstructive symptoms should be removed.
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 90 %.
ESGE recommends device-assisted enteroscopy for the removal of polyps. Based on phenotype, intraoperative enteroscopy could be considered.
Strong recommendation, moderate quality of evidence, level of agreement 89 %.
In a cohort study including 110 PJS patients, 69 % developed at least one intussusception at a median age of 16 years [110]. The intussusception occurred in the small bowel in 95 % of the cases. Based on the histology of 37 cases, intussusception occurred owing to polyps with a median diameter of 35 mm (15 – 60 mm). In almost all publications, the indication for balloon endoscopy is set at polyps over 10 – 15 mm on VCE or MRI-E, although some studies used a threshold of 20 mm [109]. Several studies have shown that polypectomy of relevant small-bowel polyps can prevent the need for emergency surgery [108]
[122]
[123].
Balloon-assisted enteroscopy facilitates polypectomy in almost all patients with clinically relevant polyps [109]. Single-balloon and double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE) have been shown to be effective for the removal of polyps up to 60 mm [124] and 100 mm [125], respectively. Prior abdominal surgery is not a contraindication for balloon enteroscopy. For individuals with too many small-bowel polyps, or large or high risk polyps, laparoscopically-assisted DBE or intraoperative enteroscopy can be performed [123].
The effect on cancer reduction is not known. Only one T2N0 adenocarcinoma in the jejunum has been detailed in the DBE literature, which has reported more than 3000 polypectomies [109]
[111]
[126].
4 Juvenile polyposis syndrome
4 Juvenile polyposis syndrome
4.1 Background
The diagnosis of JPS is based on clinical criteria [10] ([Table 1]). Individuals with five or more juvenile polyps in the colorectum or any juvenile polyps in other parts of the GI tract should undergo genetic testing [37]. A germline mutation in SMAD4 or BMPR1A is identified in around 40 % – 60 % of those with a clinical diagnosis. Germline mutations in these genes result in two relatively different phenotypes [127]. SMAD4 mutation carriers present with colonic and gastric involvement, in combination with hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT), whereas BMPR1A mutation carriers mostly develop a colonic phenotype [11]
[12]. JPS is associated with an increased GI cancer risk varying from 39 % to 68 % [10]
[13].
4.2 Colonoscopy surveillance
ESGE recommends that colonoscopy screening in asymptomatic individuals with juvenile polyposis syndrome starts at the age of 12 – 15 years.
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 100 %.
ESGE recommends an interval of 1 – 3 years based on phenotype for routine colonoscopy surveillance in individuals with juvenile polyposis.
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 100 %.
ESGE recommends that colorectal polyps > 10 mm should be removed in individuals with juvenile polyposis syndrome to prevent complications and the development of colorectal cancer.
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 90 %.
Almost all patients with SMAD4 and BMPR1A germline mutations present with colonic hamartomas, with a wide range of disease expression from a few polyps to over 100 polyps [128]
[129]
[130]. Very young patients with symptomatic polyposis have been reported (4 – 12 years) [129]
[130]. In the largest published series of 84 cases fulfilling the clinical criteria for JPS, from the Johns Hopkins’ hospital, 8 of the 84 patients (9.5 %) developed CRC between the ages of 30 and 58 years, with a lifetime calculated risk of 37 % [13]. In another retrospective series from Baltimore, the frequency of colectomy was 49 % [128]. Besides classical cases, a much more severe phenotype has been described in patients harboring a microdeletion in chromosome 10 that involves both the BMPR1A and PTEN genes [131].
4.3 Esophagogastroduodenoscopy surveillance
ESGE recommends that esophagogastroduodenoscopy surveillance should start at the age of 18 years in asymptomatic individuals with a SMAD4 mutation.
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 100 %.
ESGE suggests that esophagogastroduodenoscopy surveillance should start at the age of 25 years in asymptomatic individuals with a BMPR1A mutation.
Weak recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 90 %.
ESGE recommends an interval of 1 – 3 years depending on phenotype for esophagogastroduodenoscopy surveillance in individuals with juvenile polyposis syndrome.
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 90 %.
ESGE recommends gastric management (polypectomy, surgery, surveillance) be discussed in expert multidisciplinary teams as no clear algorithm can be proposed based on the available data.
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 100 %.
The lifetime risks of extracolonic cancers, including stomach, pancreas, and small intestine, are difficult to quantify owing to a lack of good quality data. Risks that have been reported vary from 20 % to 60 % [132]. However, these are likely to be influenced by overestimation of risk due to ascertainment bias. Gastric cancer has not been reported among patients below the age of 35 years [128]. However, the majority of SMAD4 mutation carriers develop gastric hamartomas at an early age, which may progress into a severe diffuse hamartomatous gastritis mimicking Menetrier disease in adulthood [127]
[128]
[130]
[133]. On the other hand, based on limited data, BMPR1A carriers do not seem to present with gastric involvement [127]
[129].
4.4 Small-bowel surveillance
ESGE does not recommend small-bowel surveillance in asymptomatic individuals with juvenile polyposis syndrome.
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 100 %.
Small-bowel involvement in JPS is rare and, if present, predominantly located in the duodenum [127]
[128]
[130]. Wain et al. found a prevalence of 29 % for duodenal polyps in SMAD4 mutation carriers [130]. Involvement of the distal duodenum in JPS is not described [134]
[135]. In addition, no cases of jejunal or ileal carcinoma have been reported. Therefore, EGD seems to be sufficient for small-bowel surveillance in JPS patients. Finally, the association of SMAD4 mutation with HHT suggests that, in expert centers, management of iron deficiency anemia unexplained by EGD and colonoscopy could be an indication for small-bowel evaluation with VCE. In patients with evidence of HHT, screening for vascular lesions in other organs should be performed.
5 Serrated polyposis syndrome
5 Serrated polyposis syndrome
5.1 Background
SPS has emerged as the most frequent form of polyposis, with an estimated prevalence of up to 1:111 (0.9 %) of individuals in fecal occult blood test-based screening cohorts and up to 1:238 (0.42 %) in primary screening cohorts [14]
[15]
[16]
[17]. SPS is often grouped with the hereditary polyposis syndromes although no underlying gene defect has been identified yet. SPS is diagnosed using clinical criteria defined by the World Health Organization criteria, recently revised ([Table 1]) [18]
[136].
The prevalence of CRC in patients with SPS has been estimated to range between 15 % and 30 % and there is an increased risk for CRC prior to or at the time of SPS diagnosis and treatment [14]
[19]
[20]
[21]
[22]. In one prospective and three retrospective cohorts, the cumulative 5-year incidence of CRC under endoscopic surveillance ranged between 0 and 7.0 % [14]
[19]
[20]
[137].
5.2 Colonoscopy surveillance and management of neoplasia
ESGE recommends endoscopic removal of all polyps ≥ 5 mm and all polyps of any size with optical suspicion of dysplasia in individuals with serrated polyposis syndrome before and after entering surveillance.
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 100 %.
ESGE recommends a surveillance interval of 1 year following a colonoscopy with ≥ 1 advanced polyp[1] or ≥ 5 non-advanced clinically relevant polyps[2].
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 80 %.
ESGE recommends a surveillance interval of 2 years in patients with no advanced polyps[1] or < 5 non-advanced clinically relevant polyps[2].
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 100 %.
In SPS patients, successful endoscopic treatment at diagnosis (the so-called “clearing phase”) can be achieved in the majority of patients [14]
[20]
[138]. However, clearing in some cases requires commitment, time, and expertise to perform a large number of polypectomies in one or more procedures [138]. Accordingly, these patients should be managed in dedicated units with expert endoscopists in order to prevent unnecessary surgery. Studies with expert endoscopists have shown that EMR of large serrated lesions is easy, safe, and has a lower recurrence rate than for adenomas [139].
The risk of developing CRC during endoscopic surveillance following diagnosis and clearing of the initial polyp burden seems to be low. Based on two large retrospective cohort studies, the cumulative incidence during surveillance varied from 0 to 3.1 % after 3 – 5 years [14]
[20]. The median interval between surveillance colonoscopies in these cohort studies varied between 12 and 19 months [14]
[19]
[20]
[21]
[22]
[138]
[140]. Although the CRC risk during surveillance is low, one retrospective and one prospective cohort study reported that the incidence of advanced neoplasia during surveillance is as high as 34 % – 42 % after 3 years of surveillance [19]
[22].
In a recent study, 271 SPS patients were prospectively followed during a median of 3.6 years of surveillance using a personalized surveillance protocol [141]. Patients were surveilled at intervals of either 1 or 2 years, depending on their most recent polyp burden and the risk of metachronous advanced neoplasia. SPS patients were recommended a surveillance interval of 1 year if: one or more advanced serrated lesions or adenomas had been removed; if cumulatively ≥ 5 relevant polyps (sessile serrated lesions [irrespective of size], adenomas [irrespective of size], and/or hyperplastic polyps > 5 mm) had been removed; or if surgery was needed during the last surveillance/clearing phase. In all other cases, a 2-year surveillance interval was recommended. The cumulative CRC and advanced neoplasia incidences after 5 years were 1.3 % and 44 %, respectively. In the majority of patients, a 2-year interval was recommended. Following the 2-year protocol, the incidence of advanced neoplasia during the next colonoscopy was 16 %, compared with 24 % following the shortened 1-year interval (odds ratio [OR] 0.57, 95 %CI 0.31 – 1.07). This evidence suggests that surveillance is safe, less demanding than the clearing phase, and that surveillance can be extended to 2 years in a large proportion of patients. During surveillance all polyps ≥ 5 mm and all polyps of any size with optical suspicion of dysplasia should be removed.
5.3 Advanced imaging in colonoscopy surveillance
ESGE recommends the use of high definition systems in the endoscopic surveillance of individuals with serrated polyposis syndrome.
Strong recommendation, moderate quality of evidence, level of agreement 89 %.
Tandem colonoscopy studies have demonstrated that around 30 % of serrated lesions are missed during conventional colonoscopy, and this is especially relevant in high risk conditions such as SPS [142]. The usefulness of virtual chromoendoscopy (narrow-band imaging [NBI]) in SPS surveillance has been assessed in two randomized crossover studies [143]
[144]. The first single-center study included 22 patients and showed lower polyp miss rates with high definition (HD)-NBI compared with HD white-light endoscopy (HD-WLE; OR 0.21; 95 %CI 0.09 – 0.45) [143]. However, in the second multicenter study, comparison of the overall polyp miss rates of HD-WLE and NBI showed no significant difference (P = 0.065) [144].
Recently, a multicenter randomized controlled trial (RCT) evaluated the usefulness of conventional chromoendoscopy with indigo carmine for the detection of colonic polyps in SPS [145]. This study demonstrated a significantly higher additional polyp detection rate in the HD chromoendoscopy group (0.39; 95 %CI 0.35 – 0.44) than in the HD-WLE group (0.22; 95 %CI 0.18 – 0.27; P < 0.001). HD chromoendoscopy detected more serrated lesions (40 % vs. 24 %; P = 0.001), serrated lesions proximal to the sigmoid colon (40 % vs. 21 %; P = 0.001), and serrated lesions > 5 mm proximal to the sigmoid colon (37 % vs. 18 %; P = 0.013) than HD-WLE. Therefore, based on this single RCT the use of conventional chromoendoscopy improves polyp detection and could be considered in the surveillance of SPS patients. However, its routine use must be balanced against practical considerations.
Finally, a recent RCT evaluated the usefulness of Endocuff-assisted colonoscopy in the surveillance of SPS [146]. In this study, with 123 SPS patients included, no statistical differences were found between Endocuff-assisted colonoscopy and HD-WLE colonoscopy for the detection of overall polyps, serrated lesions, sessile serrated lesions, and adenomas.
5.4 Screening of first-degree relatives
ESGE recommends that, for first-degree relatives of individuals with serrated polyposis syndrome, colorectal cancer screening by colonoscopy should be offered from the age of 45 years.
Strong recommendation, moderate quality of evidence, level of agreement 80 %.
ESGE recommends that, for first-degree relatives of individuals with serrated polyposis syndrome, colorectal cancer screening by colonoscopy should be offered every 5 years. If polyps are found, surveillance should be based on polyp characterization.
Strong recommendation, low quality of evidence, level of agreement 90 %.
Most SPS cases seem non-familial. However, the presence of the disease in family members has been described in previous reports [137]
[147]
[148]. Moreover, various studies have described an increased incidence of CRC in relatives of patients with SPS. Boparai et al. investigated the risk of CRC in 347 first-degree relatives of 57 patients with SPS; they established an absolute risk of CRC of 8 % and an RR of 5.4 (95 %CI 3.7 – 7.8) [149]. Two other studies reported an absolute risk of CRC of 12 % – 15 % in first-degree relatives [150]
[151]. The age at diagnosis of CRC in relatives ranged from 55 to 62 years in these studies [148]
[149]
[150]. During follow-up of these first-degree relatives of patients with SPS, retrospective studies [148]
[152]
[153] found a high risk of CRC and advanced polyps. Hazewinkel et al. prospectively investigated the yield of screening colonoscopy in 77 first-degree relatives of patients with SPS in whom no CRC was found, with significant polyps being present in 43 % of patients [154].
Discussion
The management of patients with polyposis syndromes is challenging. The various types of polyposis syndrome have variable risks for a large spectrum of cancers. In addition, the phenotype may differ among individuals having a specific germline mutation, and even within/between family members carrying the same mutation. Furthermore, in a proportion of patients with clinical polyposis, no germline mutation can be identified. This guideline gives a framework on how these patients should be endoscopically managed according to the current literature and expert opinion ([Table 2] and [Table 3]).
The ESGE aligns with the European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN) guidelines on polyposis syndromes in children and young adults [155]
[156]
[157]. The ESPGHAN guideline differs from this guideline with regard to the colonoscopy interval for FAP patients with intact colon, with this being 1 – 3 yearly in the ESPGHAN guideline and 1 – 2 yearly in our guideline [156]. We have chosen to align the FAP and MAP surveillance intervals to make it less confusing for endoscopists. Again, the interval should mainly be based on phenotype and the endoscopist may lengthen the surveillance interval based on adenoma characteristics (number, size, and degree of dysplasia). The main difference with the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) guideline is the proposed endoscopic management for gastric and duodenal adenomas in (A)FAP and MAP patients [37]. In contrast with the ACG guideline, the ESGE guideline does not recommend random sampling of fundic gland polyps during EGD surveillance. Furthermore, the ESGE advises endoscopic polypectomy of duodenal adenomas of ≥ 10 mm.
Disclaimer
The legal disclaimer for ESGE Guidelines [30] applies to the current Guideline.