Colorectal Polyps

Alternate Names : Colon Polyps, Rectal Polyps

How is the condition diagnosed?

Colorectal polyps can be seen only with special tests because polyps are hidden within the body. A barium enema is a special X-ray test that can detect polyps.

Starting at the age of 40, people should have yearly digital rectal exams and stool testing for occult blood. Annual fecal occult blood tests allow early detection of colorectal polyps. The polyps can then be removed before they become colorectal cancer.

Beginning at the age of 50, a flexible sigmoidoscopy should be done every 3 to 5 years. A sigmoidoscopy is a procedure that allows a healthcare professional to look into the rectum and sigmoid colon through a flexible scope.

A colonoscopy may also be used to diagnose colorectal polyps. Like a sigmoidoscopy, this procedure allows a healthcare professional to look into the rectum and sigmoid colon through a flexible scope. The difference between the procedures is that colonoscopy goes further or deeper into the bowels than sigmoidoscopy.