Polyps: 10 Terms to Know

There are many different type of polyps that can affect anyone of any age. Since “polyp” is such a broad term, it can be helpful to know more specifics about this condition and how it might affect you. Here are some of the most important terms to know about polyps.

1. Polyp: A polyp is defined as a growth of abnormal tissue that is able to form on any organ in your body that has blood vessels. Because there are different types of polyps, the appearance and symptoms of individual cases of polyps will vary.
2. Mucous membrane: Your mucous membrane is an epithelial tissue that secretes mucus and lines most cavities and tubular organs throughout your body. This is the part of the organ that polyps develop on.
3. Colon polyps: Colon polyps develop along the lining of the colon and are one of the most common types. Most colon polyps are completely harmless; however, it is possible for some colon polyps to develop into colon cancer over time, which is often fatal. Because of this, most colon polyps are removed immediately upon detection and screened for cancerous or precancerous cells that may be present.
4. Endometrial polyps: This type of polyp forms along the lining of the inside of a woman’s uterus (the endometrium). Endometrial polyps are usually caused by an imbalance of female hormones, such as estrogen. Therefore, it is most common for women who are going through menopause to develop endometrial polyps.
5. Cervical polyps: Polyps that develop on the surface of the cervix or inside the cervical canal are referred to as cervical polyps. Like endometrial polyps, cervical polyps are most common among middle-aged women who are going through menopause, because of the increase in estrogen.
6. Nasal polyps: Nasal polyps are growths that form along the lining of your nasal passage or on your sinuses. They are usually small and painless. Nasal polyps are most often the result of a condition that causes chronic inflammation, such as asthma or allergies. This type of polyp can affect people of any age, but they are most common among adults.
7. Inflammation: Polyps are often the result of conditions or disorders that cause chronic inflammation. For example, nasal polyps are often the result of chronic inflammation due to asthma, allergies, drug sensitivity, or recurring infections. You are at a greater risk for colon polyps if you have inflammatory intestinal conditions such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
8. Biopsy: If a polyp is small and produces no symptoms, then your doctor may recommend that you do nothing, as the condition will usually resolve itself. However, there are some types of polyps that need to be removed immediately in order to check for cancerous or precancerous cells that may be present. This procedure is called a biopsy, and it is often performed for colon polyps and sometimes for cervical or endometrial polyps that are detected during regular screenings.
9. Benign: Most polyps are benign, meaning that they are noncancerous. If this is the case, then the only reason why polyps would need to be removed is if they are causing uncomfortable symptoms. For example, sometimes benign nasal polyps will lead to breathing problems, frequent infections, or a lost sense of smell.
10. Malignant: Even though most polyps are not threatening, it is possible for some polyps to develop cancerous cells. Colon polyps are at a higher risk for becoming cancerous than most other types of polyps, which is why they are usually removed as soon as they are detected. If your polyp is determined to be cancerous, then you will need to see a cancer specialist and begin treatment as soon as possible.