Risk factors and screening techniques in 500 patients with benign and malignant colon polyps

Abstract

The authors have reviewed 13 years of experience with 500 patients who had 1240 polypoid lesions identified at colonoscopy. An analysis of these patients' symptoms, signs, and past histories prior to initial colonoscopy were collated by computer in order to provide useful information to help in early identification of patients with polyps and to define specific risk factors in patients with polypoid cancers (71 patients with 79 cancers). This study shows that the 500 patients with colon polyps, with and without cancer, are similar in all parameters measured. Their symptoms correlated poorly with the pathology or location of the polyp. Frequently unrelated symptoms brought the patient to the attention of their private physician. A significant high-risk group of patients identified were those with prior colon polyps and cancer. A positive family history of colon cancer was not common. Barium enema, the most common examination, was performed in 90 percent of patients and was the first test to diagnose polyps in 54 percent. Flexible sigmoidoscopy, only more recently available and performed in 20 percent of the patients, established a diagnosis of polypoid disease 96 percent of the time. This study supports screening for all adults above 40 years of age with flexible sigmoidoscopy and stool occult blood.