When a colonoscopy reveals a 5 mm sessile polyp, it is natural to feel some concern. Colon polyps are growths that can form on the inner lining of the large intestine, and they are a common finding during routine screenings. Understanding the specific terminology, like “sessile” and the size “5 mm,” helps to clarify what this discovery means for one’s health and future care.
What Are Polyps and Sessile Polyps
Polyps are abnormal growths of tissue that project from a mucous membrane, such as the lining of the colon. They can vary in size and shape, with some polyps remaining harmless while others have the potential to develop into cancer over time.
A sessile polyp is characterized by its flat or dome-shaped appearance, attaching directly to the colon lining with a broad base. This is in contrast to pedunculated polyps, which resemble a mushroom with a distinct stalk connecting them to the colon wall.
How Significant is 5 mm
A 5 mm sessile polyp is considered small, falling into the “diminutive” category for colon polyps. Polyps measuring 5 mm or less carry a low risk of being cancerous. While size is a factor, the likelihood of a polyp progressing to cancer increases with its size, with polyps 10 mm or larger having a higher risk.
Despite their small size, the specific type of polyp is important for assessing risk. For instance, some sessile polyps, known as sessile serrated lesions (SSLs) or sessile serrated adenomas, have a distinct microscopic appearance and can have a higher potential to become cancerous than other types, such as hyperplastic polyps. However, even sessile serrated polyps carry a low risk of becoming cancerous if they do not show major cellular changes. The pathologist’s examination after removal provides the definitive assessment of the polyp’s nature.
What Happens After a Sessile Polyp is Found
When a sessile polyp is identified during a colonoscopy, it is removed during the same procedure. This removal, known as a polypectomy, prevents any potential progression of the polyp into cancer. The removed tissue is then sent to a pathology lab for microscopic examination to determine its specific type and to check for any signs of abnormal cell changes, also known as dysplasia.
The pathology report will classify the polyp, as an adenoma (which can be pre-cancerous) or a hyperplastic polyp (benign). If the polyp is an adenoma or a sessile serrated lesion, it indicates a higher risk, and the healthcare provider will recommend a specific surveillance interval for future colonoscopies. For 5 mm sessile polyps, if they are hyperplastic and without concerning features, the follow-up colonoscopy is recommended in 10 years. However, if the 5 mm sessile polyp is identified as a sessile serrated polyp or an adenoma, surveillance intervals are shorter, ranging from 5 to 10 years.
Long-Term Health and Prevention
Maintaining colon health involves a combination of regular screenings and healthy lifestyle choices. Routine colonoscopies are a primary tool for detecting and removing polyps early, significantly reducing the risk of colorectal cancer. Healthcare providers recommend screening based on age and individual risk factors.
Beyond screenings, several lifestyle modifications can contribute to colon health and help reduce the risk of developing new polyps. Adopting a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber is beneficial, while limiting red and processed meats helps. Regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy body weight are also important factors. Reducing alcohol consumption and avoiding tobacco use can further support colon health.