Prevalence and histological characteristics of tiny rectal and sigmoid polyps in a colombian population

Abstract

Introduction: Because colorectal cancer (CRC) originates from adenomatous and serrated polyps, it is re-commended that all colonic polyps be resected and sent to pathology. However, there is controversy over this recommendation in the case of rectal and sigmoid polyps measuring less than 5 mm. Strategies using advanced NBI endoscopes to either “resect and discard” or leave “in situ” have been proposed. Concordance with histopathology of over 90% has been achieved. No prospective studies of the prevalence and histological characteristics of these rectal and sigmoid polyps had been done with white light in this country, so we under-took this study. Materials and methods: This is an analytical and prospective prevalence study. Screening colonoscopies performed in the gastroenterology unit of Clínica Fundadores in Bogotá between January and July 2018 were included. Results: Seven hundred nineteen patients were included. The prevalence of tiny polyps in the rectum and sigmoid colon was 27% (95% CI: 23.7 to 30.2%). Fifty percent were adenomatous, but eight cases had high grade dysplasia. Among the tiny polyps, three were neuroendocrine tumors. There was no cancer in any of the lesions. Conclusions: Half of the tiny polyps found were adenomatous, and eight (0.83%) had high grade dysplasia. We recommend resecting all tiny polyps until local studies conducted with NBI or other technology demonstrate the ability to discriminate between the more than 90% hyperplastic polyps (leaving them in situ) and adenomatous polyps (resect them).