What are polyps?
A polyp is a growth inside of your body that contains malignant (cancerous) or cells that may become malignant. It’s a clump of cells that are growing abnormally.
A polyp is usually shaped one of two ways. It can be a flat bump (sessile). Or it can be shaped like a mushroom, with a bulbous head projecting from a stalk (pedunculated). Polyps range in size, from about 5 millimeters (the size of a match head) to 3 centimeters (similar to the top of your thumb) or larger.
A growth may be a precancerous polyp (the cells are starting to change but have not yet become cancerous). Or the cells may be cancerous.
Polyps sometimes develop in other places. Although they may grow and cause symptoms, they don’t become cancerous:
- Bladder.
- Ear (aural polyps).
- Gallbladder.
- Nose (nasal polyps).
- Vocal cords.
Cancerous polyps
Cancerous polyps may develop on several different surfaces inside of your body:
- Colon or rectum (parts of your large intestine), referred to as colorectal polyps.
- Stomach.
- Uterus.
Is a polyp a tumor?
If you have a polyp, your healthcare provider can determine whether it’s a cancerous tumor. This usually involves a biopsy. During a biopsy, your healthcare provider takes a small sample of tissue or removes the entire polyp. Then, an expert looks at the polyp’s cells under a microscope.
Does a cancerous polyp mean colon cancer?
Polyps are common, but cancerous polyps aren’t. Most polyps are benign (not cancerous). Your doctor can tell if a colon polyp is cancerous during a colonoscopy by collecting tissue to biopsy. The results of the biopsy are typically sent to your doctor within a week.
Only 5% to 10% of all polyps become cancerous.
How long does it take for a polyp to turn into cancer?
If a polyp becomes malignant (cancerous), it usually happens over the course of several years.
What are the symptoms of a cancerous polyp?
Cancerous polyps may cause no symptoms at all. But if you do have symptoms, they depend on where the polyp is located:
- Colorectal polyps may cause belly pain, constipation, diarrhea or blood in your poop.
- Stomach polyps may cause nausea, belly pain, vomiting and bleeding.
- Uterine polyps may cause vaginal bleeding, vaginal discharge, irregular periods or problems with fertility. They’re also called endometrial polyps.
What are the most common causes of cancerous polyps?
Scientists are still trying to understand what causes polyps, as well as what makes some polyps turn malignant. Most cancerous polyps are a result of genetic changes that are inherited or occur sporadically.
Some research suggests that certain types of cancerous polyps are related to hormones or other health conditions.
What is the treatment for a cancerous polyp?
Treatment for a cancerous polyp varies widely, depending on:
- Location.
- Number of polyps.
- Other medical conditions and health history.
- Polyp size.
- Symptoms.
Your healthcare provider may suggest surgery to remove cancerous polyps (polypectomy). But, sometimes, they recommend a “watch and wait” approach, or “active surveillance.” This means they’ll keep an eye on the polyp(s) until intervention is necessary.
How can cancerous polyps be prevented?
Certain lifestyle choices can help decrease the chances of cancerous polyps:
- Eat a healthy diet to reduce cancer risk.
- Exercise regularly.
- Limit alcohol consumption.
- Quit smoking.
Some research shows that certain medications may help prevent cancerous polyps:
When should I seek medical treatment for polyps?
If you have polyps or symptoms of polyps, talk to your healthcare provider. It’s especially important to report:
- Abdominal pain that gets worse or doesn’t stop.
- Changes in your stool (poop).
- Frequent or constant diarrhea or constipation.
- Abnormal menstruation (periods).
- Nausea and vomiting for no apparent reason that doesn’t go away, especially if your vomit contains blood.
- Unusual vaginal discharge or vaginal bleeding.
A note from Cleveland Clinic
Most polyps aren’t malignant, but some can become cancerous. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have a history of polyps or any symptoms. Your doctor can determine whether a polyp is cancerous and should be removed.