What is the Difference Between Hyperplastic and Adenomatous Polyp?

Hyperplastic and adenomatous polyps are two different types of colon polyps, which are growths that form on the inner lining of the colon. The main differences between these two types of polyps are their potential for malignancy and their histological features:

Hyperplastic Polyps:

• Common, small, and considered extremely low risk for turning cancerous.
• Typically found in the distal colon.
• Very low malignant potential.
• Account for 80 to 90% of serrated polyps.
• Lack dysplastic architectural distortion and mutagenic potential for transformation to cancer.
• Do not represent a risk for developing neoplasia.

Adenomatous Polyps (Adenomas):

• Have the potential to become cancerous.
• Can be thought of as pre-cancers, which is why it is important to remove them.
• There are different types of adenomas, with varying degrees of abnormality and potential for malignancy.
• High-grade dysplasia in an adenoma might require a repeat colonoscopy sooner rather than later.
• Most often removed during a colonoscopy, but sometimes surgery may be needed if the adenoma is too large to remove completely during the colonoscopy.

In summary, hyperplastic polyps are generally benign and have a very low risk of turning cancerous, whereas adenomatous polyps have the potential to become cancerous and require removal to prevent malignant transformation.

Comparative Table: Hyperplastic vs Adenomatous Polyp

The main difference between hyperplastic and adenomatous polyps is their potential to become cancerous. Hyperplastic polyps have virtually no chance of becoming cancerous, while adenomatous polyps have the potential to develop into colorectal cancer. Here is a table summarizing the key differences between hyperplastic and adenomatous polyps:

Both hyperplastic and adenomatous polyps are types of colon polyps that can be found during colorectal screening, such as colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy, stool test, and virtual colonoscopy. While hyperplastic polyps are generally considered benign, adenomatous polyps require closer monitoring and may need treatment to prevent the development of colorectal cancer.