Symptoms of multiple inflammatory polyps in the colon

Multiple inflammatory polyps in the colon can present different polyp symptoms, such as hyperplastic polyps, lymphoid polyps, and inflammatory polyps. Therefore, we must be vigilant and seek scientific treatment for any polyps or discomfort symptoms.

1. Hyperplastic polyps: no malignant changes will occur

Hyperplastic polyps are the most common type and are also known as "metaplastic polyps." This type of polyp is mostly distributed in the distal large intestine. It is generally small in size, with a diameter rarely exceeding 1 cm. It looks like a small drop-shaped protrusion on the mucosal surface with a smooth surface and a wide base. Multiple polyps are also very common. Histologically, this type of polyp is formed by enlarged and regular glands. The increase in glandular epithelial cells causes the skin to shrink and become serrated. The cell nuclei are arranged regularly, and their size and chromatin content change very little. Nuclear division is relatively rare. An important feature is that mature cells appear in the middle and lower segments of the intestinal glandular crypts. Hyperplastic polyps also do not develop into malignant changes.

2. Lymphatic polyps: common in adults aged 20-40

Lymphoid polyps, also known as benign lymphomas, are more common in adults aged 20-40 years old, and in a few children. Among them, there are slightly more males. Lymphoid polyps are common in the rectum, especially in the lower rectum; most are single, but there are also multiple ones; they vary in size, with diameters ranging from a few millimeters to 2-5 centimeters. The surface may be smooth or lobed or may have superficial ulceration. Most of them are pedicleless, and those that have pedicles are relatively short and thick. Histologically, it appears as well-differentiated lymphoid follicle tissue confined to the submucosal layer and covered with normal mucosa. Germinal centers can be seen, which are often enlarged and have mitotic figures, but there are no mitotic figures in the surrounding lymphocytes, and the proliferating follicles are clearly demarcated from the surrounding tissue. Lymphatic polyps cannot become cancerous.

Less common is benign lymphatic polyposis. It manifests as a large number of lymphoid polyps. It is a small spherical polyp of 5-6 cm and is more common in children. Histological changes are the same as those of lymphoid polyps. I am available at St. Mark's Hospital all day every Wednesday. If you or your family and friends encounter this type of problem, please feel free to talk to me. You can also call the 24-hour hotline 010-50967777 for consultation or to make an appointment.

3. Inflammatory polyps: caused by long-term chronic inflammation

Inflammatory polyps, also called "pseudopolyps", are polyp-like granulomas caused by long-term chronic inflammation of the intestinal mucosa. This type of polyp is often found in the diseased intestines of diseases such as ulcerative colitis, chronic schistosomiasis, amoebic dysentery, and intestinal tuberculosis. They are often multiple, and most are small, with a diameter of less than 1 cm. If the disease lasts for a long time, the size will increase. The appearance is mostly narrow, long, with a wide pedicle and irregular distal end. Sometimes it is bridge-shaped, with both ends attached to the mucosa and the middle part free. Histologically, it shows fibrous granulation tissue, and the epithelial components may also show mesenchymal changes. There is no definite answer as to whether the disease will worsen or become cancerous.