Colorectal polyps are abnormal growths that project from the mucosal lining of the colon or rectum into the bowel lumen. They vary in histological type and in malignant potential: hyperplastic polyps are generally benign, whereas adenomatous and certain serrated polyps are recognized precursors that can progress to …
Colorectal polyps are abnormal growths that project from the mucosal lining of the colon or rectum into the bowel lumen. They vary in histological type and in malignant potential: hyperplastic polyps are generally benign, whereas adenomatous and certain serrated polyps are recognized precursors that can progress to colorectal cancer through accumulated genetic and epigenetic change. Polyps are frequently asymptomatic and are typically detected during colonoscopy or other screening, where they can be removed by polypectomy. Because most colorectal cancers arise from these precursor lesions, the detection and removal of polyps is a cornerstone of colorectal cancer prevention. This topic spans the pathology, carcinogenic significance, and screening of colorectal polyps. Relevant work includes the characterization of serrated lesions of the colorectum as a distinct pathway in colorectal carcinogenesis, anatomical features such as taller haustral folds in the proximal colon that may contribute to interval cancers, and molecular methods such as microRNA quantification for diagnostic screening. Related research evaluates chemopreventive strategies, including the role of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and population-based screening programmes using faecal immunochemical testing. Together these strands illustrate why identifying, classifying, and removing polyps is central to interrupting the adenoma-to-carcinoma sequence and reducing colorectal cancer incidence.
7 peer-reviewed articles, ranked by relevance. Each links to its DOI.
The 7 articles above have been cited 24 times in the scholarly literature. Citation data via OpenAlex and Crossref, updated Jun 2026.
A sample of recent works citing this journal's research on Colorectal Polyps, linking to each citing work.