Service
Anal polyp and rectal polyps
- Section
- Services
- Specialist
- Op. Dr. Dilara Hasanova
- Clinic
- Modern Hospital, Baku
What is an anal polyp?
Short answer
An anal polyp is a growth that forms in the anal canal or at the edge of the anus and arises from the skin of the anal canal (anoderm) or from its mucous membrane. Often it is a benign fibroepithelial polyp or an enlarged anal papilla, and it is frequently found together with hemorrhoids and anal fissure. Polyps that form in the upper parts of the rectum and in the colon are of a different kind. Some of them can turn into cancer over time.
Symptoms
- A “foreign body” sensation in the anus, a growth that protrudes during a bowel movement
- Bleeding
- Mucous discharge, wetness, itching
- Often it causes no symptoms at all and is found by chance during an examination for hemorrhoids or anal fissure
Anal polyp and colon polyp: what is the difference?
| Anal polyp | Rectal and colon polyp | |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Anal canal, edge of the anus | Rectum and colon |
| Nature | Benign in most cases (fibroepithelial polyp, anal papilla) | Some (adenomas) are precancerous growths |
| How is it detected? | Proctological examination, anoscopy, video proctoscopy | Rectoscopy, colonoscopy |
| How is it removed? | Surgically (anal polypectomy) | Mainly endoscopically, during colonoscopy |
In both cases, the removed growth is sent for histological examination. Only the histological result determines the exact type of polyp. In Dr. Hasanova's words: “A polyp found early is a risk prevented.”
The doctor's practice
Examinations and treatments Dr. Hasanova performs herself
- She removes anal polyps surgically (anal polypectomy), including in cases of multiple polyps.
- When hemorrhoids or an anal fissure are present, she often performs the polypectomy in the same operation session.
- She sends all removed tissue for histopathological examination.
- After a polypectomy, she invites the patient for a follow-up visit.
- When a polyp is suspected higher up in the rectum or in the colon, she refers the patient for colonoscopy.
Colonoscopy at Modern Hospital is performed by an endoscopist.
Frequently asked questions
Can an anal polyp turn into cancer?
Most polyps found in the anal canal are benign fibroepithelial polyps and do not turn into cancer. Adenomatous polyps of the colon and rectum, however, are considered precancerous growths. To determine the exact type of polyp, the removed tissue is sent for histological examination.
Does a polyp always have to be removed?
Anal polyps that cause symptoms, are growing, or are of an unknown type are usually removed. Most polyps found in the colon are removed during colonoscopy to prevent cancer. The doctor makes the decision based on the size, number and appearance of the polyp.
When is follow-up needed after a polyp is removed?
The timing of the follow-up visit depends on the type, number and size of the polyp and is set individually according to the histological result. After colon polyps, the doctor determines when to repeat the colonoscopy based on international guidelines.