39. Rectal polyp

Organ: Rectum

Description:

We can see a broccoli-looking polyp with a stalk sticking out of the mucosa.

Diagnosis: Rectal polyp

Causes:

Unknown

Theory:

This polyp has a stalk, so it is a pedunculated polyp and not a sessile one. Depending on its microscopical features can it be either a tubular/villous/tubulovillous polyp and either a hyperplastic or adenomatous polyp.

They usually present without symptoms, which is why screening is important (although uncomfortable). If the polyp becomes ulcerated can haematochezia occur. If it is very large can ileus occur.