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A glandular polyp
Last reviewed: 07.06.2024
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Tumor is a formation formed as a result of excessively active multiplication of cells, which was caused by a violation of the mechanism of control over the processes of their division, growth, differentiation, constantly occurring in our body according to certain laws. This is a focus of pathologically growing tissue (muscular, epithelial, connective tissue). If such a neoplasm is formed from epithelial cells of the mucous membrane, it has a separate name. Thus, a glandular polyp is a benign tumor consisting of cellular elements of the mucous membrane of various organs. Most often they are mentioned in gynecology, less often in relation to organs, when benign tumors are found on the inner surface of the GI organs (esophagus, stomach, intestines), urinary and gallbladder, nose.
Glandular endometrial polyp - what is it?
In gynecology, glandular polyps are considered a common problem. Its usual localization is the endometrium of the body and cervix (cervical canal) of the uterus. Endometrium is the mucous membrane inside the body of the uterus, rich in glandular cells, the number of which increases during pregnancy. It is clear that uterine endometrial polyps are a strictly female disease, while bladder polyposis is more common in the stronger half of mankind.
Factors such as:
- Multiple abortions (including unintended abortions) and purges.
- Adrenal diseases, diabetes mellitus.
- Excessive weight.
- Hypertension.
- Prolonged intake of hormonal medications.
- Use of contraception with questionable lubricants.
- Using the IUD for longer than the prescribed period of time.
- Incomplete removal of the placenta after delivery or abortion.
- Uterine and ovarian surgeries.
- General weakening of the body, predisposition to frequent colds, infections.
- Genetic predisposition.
As we see, among a number of reasons for the formation of glandular polyp, special attention is attracted by chronic inflammatory processes in the internal organs, which in combination with poor heredity can be a trigger in the development of polyposis.
What does a glandular polyp look like?
The peculiarity of benign tumors is that they can develop from living tissues of any type. Glandular polyp is formed from actively proliferating cells of the glandular epithelium, i.e. The mucous membrane with glands located in it.
The term polyp is most often understood as a rounded mass of living tissue with a body and a stalk, which is usually much smaller in diameter. In fact, polyps can have different sizes and shapes (pear-shaped, mushroom-shaped, round, oblong, etc.). Their body consists of glandular cells, which receive nutrition thanks to the stalk, supplied with small blood vessels.
The stem, or base of the polyp, can vary in diameter and height. Some polyps are immobile, they seem to grow into the underlying tissue (they have a short, wide stalk). Others are quite mobile due to a long thinner than the body of the stalk, they are able to move within a small area, can be easily traumatized and even break off, which is accompanied by a slight hemorrhage. It is by the presence of blood in the feces or the presence of scanty bloody discharge between menstrual periods that a polyp of the intestine or uterus can be suspected.
The surface of polyps can be either smooth or fine-grained. Their color can vary from light pink to purple-red with a livid tint. Outgrowths can appear both singly and in groups. In the latter case, it is a disease such as polyposis, which is associated with an increased risk of degeneration of benign tumors into malignant tumors.
Epidemiology
According to statistics at a young age glandular polyps are found in 10-20% of patients, in the postmenopausal period the prevalence of pathology reaches 50-70%. At the same time, the causes of polyps can be very diverse:
- Disruption of hormonal balance (including pregnancy, menopause, prolonged menstruation). Low progesterone and high estrogen levels in phase 2 of the menstrual cycle are thought to increase the risk of endometrial polyps.
- Any long-term inflammatory process in the uterus or appendages, which can be provoked by infection, trauma or irritation of the mucosa of the internal genital organs.
- Endometritis and endometriosis (inflammation and overgrowth of the internal tissues of the uterus).
- Thyroid disorders.
Causes of the glandular polyp
A glandular polyp can form on any of the organs of the abdominal cavity. Distinguish between polyps of the gastrointestinal tract and the urogenital system. Despite the fact that these and tumors have a certain similarity both in appearance and in the mechanism of formation, medics consider certain groups of causes characteristic of polyps of this or that localization.
Thus, the nasal polyp, formed from the mucosal cells of the nasal passages, remains a mystery for otolaryngologists today. It is believed that the overgrowth of mucosal tissues is associated with chronic inflammation, but not all patients with this diagnosis have polyp formation. There is an opinion that this is due to a special inadequate response of the immune system.
Prolonged inflammation of the nasal mucosa is the main risk factor for glandular polyp formation, i.e. A process that increases the likelihood of nasal polyp. The risk of pathologic overgrowth of mucosal tissues is higher in patients with bronchial asthma, sensitivity to acetylsalicylic acid, allergies accompanied by rhinitis and sinusitis, cystic fibrosis, vitamin D deficiency, Churg-Strauss syndrome, in which blood vessels become inflamed, genetic predisposition to an inadequate response of the immune system (autoimmune reactions). Frequent colds, chronic rhinitis, chronic allergic sinusitis and other causes that cause and potentiate mucosal inflammation should not be ignored.
Polyps in the GI tract, which can be found on the walls of the esophagus, stomach, different parts of the intestine, gallbladder, pancreas, are objects of close attention of gastroenterologists. There are several theories that explain the appearance of tumors on the mucosa of the digestive system:
- Infectious. As the basis of the pathogenesis of glandular polyp formation, she considers the influence of the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, which causes gastritis, erosions, ulcers of the stomach and intestine. In a number of experiments, the relationship between the presence of a pathogenic microorganism in the GI tract and the formation of polyps stimulated by chronic inflammatory process was established.
- Genetic. It has long been known that predisposition to the formation of benign tumors (regardless of the type of tissue) is transmitted at the genetic level, i.e. By inheritance.
- Radiation -- There is evidence that benign tumors are formed by exposure to radiation.
- Chemical. The intake of certain types of food and medications causes trauma to the mucosa of the GI tract. Aggressive substances entering the digestive system, traumatize the delicate mucosa and cause an inflammatory process, which is not so easy to stop. From this point of view, risk factors can be considered: uncontrolled intake of medications, regular consumption of spicy dishes, smoked meats, heavy fatty foods, sweet carbonated drinks and products containing chemical additives, coffee, bad habits.
Any chronic inflammatory process in the GI tract increases the risk of glandular polyp formation on the walls of the digestive system organs, regardless of what it is caused by: infection, constant chemical or mechanical (for example, colon mucosa in chronic constipation) trauma to the mucosa or parasitic infection.
As for gallbladder polyps, most often they are of parasitic nature (opisthorchias, ascarids, helminths). Parasites imitate multiple polyps, which the doctor detects on ultrasound. The true nature of polyps in the gallbladder is unknown to physicians.
Polyps formed on the surface of the bladder and ureters are also associated with inflammation caused by infections, trauma or constant irritation of the walls of the organ. Sometimes such neoplasms are detected after the birth of the baby, which is in favor of the genetic theory of polyposis. Factors predisposing to the appearance of a polyp in the bladder and the degeneration of a benign tumor into a malignant one are considered smoking (active, passive) and irritating effect of aggressive chemicals on the mucosa. Less often they appear as a result of treatment of stress urinary incontinence with collagen.
Symptoms of the glandular polyp
Diagnosis of glandular polyp causes certain difficulties for doctors, since reliable clinical criteria are often absent and patients for a long time may not even suspect the presence of pathology. Still, some symptoms can remind of themselves, especially if the tumor has a large size. Consider the first signs that a glandular polyp or a whole family of them appeared on the mucosa of one of the organs.
Since the localization of polyps can be different, the symptomatology of pathology makes sense to consider, taking into account the location of the neoplasm on this or that organ.
Glandular nasal polyp is an overgrowth of the mucous layer of the nasal passages, sinuses, lattice labyrinth. The neoplasm is painless and insensitive to touch. Can be unilateral and bilateral. Have a completely different etiology than GI and uterine polyps.
Pathology does not have specific symptoms. Patients may complain of nasal congestion, sinusitis, impaired sense of smell. Secondary infection leading to headaches is possible.
Glandular polyp of the esophagus is a neoplasm of epithelial cells that can appear on any part of the internal surface of the organ, but its favorite places are the lower part of the esophagus, the area of the junction of the esophagus and stomach, narrowing of the esophageal tube. Statistics say that this disease is more characteristic of men.
Single neoplasms of small size usually do not cause concern and are detected accidentally during FGDS. The clinical picture of pathology depends on the number of polyps, their size and localization. Tumors grow slowly and often have a small size. Painful sensations in this case are possible only when the polyp is clamped with food during meals.
Large polyps can cause a sensation of a lump in the throat, heartburn, a pressing feeling in the chest area. Further growth of polyps or the appearance of multiple neoplasms is fraught with the appearance of constant pain, intensified during meals, gratuitous urges to vomit. The person's appetite and weight decreases, irritability appears.
Glandular polyp of the stomach - this outgrowth on the inner lining of the organ, which is also more common in men after 40 years of age. In women, the pathology is diagnosed 2-4 times less often.
The most common localization of polyps is considered the antral (lower) part of the stomach. Much less often, neoplasms are diagnosed at the junction of the stomach and the 12-intestine or on the body of the stomach. With equal probability, they can be single elements or groups.
Gastric polyps can be: adenomatous (from glandular tissue) and hyperplasiogenic (epithelial cells). The former are rare (5% of cases), but are considered more dangerous because they tend to develop into cancerous tumors (10-40% of cases, depending on the size).
The symptoms of gastric polyp are again nonspecific. According to them, you can suspect most of the pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract. With small tumor size, there may be no symptoms at all. Often polyps are formed against the background of chronic gastritis, which makes their diagnosis even more difficult.
With larger neoplasms, the clinical picture becomes more pronounced:
- dyspepsic phenomena appear (flatulence, gas, belching),
- against the background of increased acid production is heartburn, increased saliva secretion, bad breath, a specific taste in the mouth,
- appetite worsens, the patient loses weight, refuses familiar foods,
- in the place of localization of polyps appear painful sensations, irradiating to the back,
- problems with defecation: alternating constipation and diarrhea,
- the person feels weakness, loss of strength, sometimes may slightly increase in temperature.
Acute symptoms in the form of sharp pain, black feces, bloody vomit, hyperthermia, severe dizziness indicate complications, i.e. The development of more dangerous pathologies: gastric ulcer, perforation of the stomach wall and so on. [1]
Glandular polyp of the intestine is a neoplasm from the cells of the intestinal mucosa, which prevents the progression of fecal masses and is prone to degeneration into a malignant tumor. Pathology is diagnosed in both adults and children. In young people and children, it is often asymptomatic.
As the polyp grows, specific symptoms also appear:
- chronic constipation without any apparent cause,
- the presence of blood in the feces,
- frequent recurrent, unexpressed lower abdominal pain,
- contractive pain in the intestines (evidence of inflammation).
Tumors in the duodenum are not as common as glandular polyps of the colon, which includes the colon, ending in the sigmoid and smoothly passing into the rectum. This localization of the polyp at its large size in any case affects the character of defecation: their frequency and the appearance of feces.
A glandular polyp of the rectum is easily diagnosed by palpation of the bowel. Usually it does not cause pronounced symptoms. Pain may be felt only during defecation if the polyp is pinched.
A glandular polyp of the sigmoid colon is characterized by problems with defecation: alternating diarrhea and constipation, contraction-like pain in the lower abdomen during the movement of feces. If the neoplasm is small, the symptoms are implicit. With a significant size of the tumor and its degeneration into a malignant tumor, there are specks of blood in the stool (rarely massive bleeding), there are symptoms of intestinal obstruction.
The risk of tumor cell malignization is thought to be higher with multiple polyps in the intestine.
Glandular polyp of the uterus is a benign formation formed in the mucous layer of the organ - the endometrium. Inadequate overgrowth of the uterine lining tissue leads to the fact that on its surface there are noticeably elevated prolodgous growths with a pedicle, which distinguishes them from ordinary tumors. [2]
A glandular endometrial polyp consists of cells of the uterine mucosa in which the glands are located. It can be located both inside the uterus itself and in its cervix, which connects the uterus and vagina. Polyps of this localization are the most common. They are called glandular polyps of the cervical canal (endocervix). And there can be several growths, despite the narrowness of the cervical canal. [3]
Forming on the inner wall of the organ, polyps grow into the uterine cavity or endocervix. When there is not enough room for them there, they begin to protrude outward, where they are regularly traumatized during sexual intercourse.
Small neoplasms usually do not bother a woman. The first sign that allows you to suspect something wrong is scanty bloody discharge on the days of the menstrual cycle, when they should not be. The cause of such discharge is usually the impingement or trauma of a polyp, which is abundantly supplied with blood vessels.
Some women may also celebrate:
- Increased menstrual bleeding with heavy blood loss,
- heavy discharge outside of your period;
- As the polyps grow, there is a slight pulling pain in the lower abdomen, which is more likely to indicate chronic inflammation that caused the development of the polyp;
- overgrown cervical polyps can cause unpleasant and even painful sensations during sexual intercourse, accompanied by the discharge of blood.
But the most unpleasant thing is that polyps in the uterus and cervical canal become one of the reasons that make it difficult to get pregnant. They become in the way of moving the fertilized egg into the uterus, which is fraught with such a complication as ectopic pregnancy. If a woman for a long time can not get pregnant, although there are all the prerequisites for this, it is worth checking for the presence of polyps in the reproductive system, which the doctor can detect during gynecological examination (in the endocervix) or ultrasound (in the uterus itself).
Uterine polyps come in 2 types:
- Basal glandular endometrial polyp is an outgrowth formed by cells of the inner (basal) layer of the uterine epithelium. Such a polyp is called a true polyp, because it is a set of basal glandular cells. Its existence is not controlled by sex hormones.
The abscess is not inclined to change its structure. It consists mainly of stroma, in which fibrous (connective tissue), and partly collagen and muscle fibers are found, between which basal glands are irregularly located. It has a pedicle that starts in the basal layer of the endometrium and is supplied with blood vessels.
Polyps of this type are often called glandular endometrial polyps with focal fibrosis of the stroma, since they do not form from purely connective tissue.
- Glandular endometrial polyp of the functional type is a tumor formation consisting of cells of the functional layer of the uterine epithelium. They are characterized by: a great variety of shapes and sizes, cellular structure of the stroma, in which glands of wave-shaped form, surrounded by secretory and proliferative cells, are randomly located. The pedicle of a functional polyp may have a single vessel, which is most often encountered.
These polyps along with the endometrial mucosa take part in all cyclic processes in the uterus. Outgrowths are usually formed against the background of hormonal restructuring or hormonal failure.
Some authors refer glandular polyps of the endometrium of functional type to the category of focal hyperplasia. Depending on the predominance of one or another type of lining cells are considered :
- proliferative variant,
- secretory variant.
Polyps of the basal type are partially composed of fibrous tissue. Consider proliferative, indifferent, hyperplastic variants of these neoplasms.
These differences are manifested morphologically and almost do not affect the clinical picture of pathology. Their differentiation is necessary to determine the direction and principle of treatment after the polyp is removed.
Glandular endometrial polyp and pregnancy
For any woman the opportunity to become a mother is a great happiness. But sometimes it happens that a woman can not get pregnant for a long time, and when dreams do come true, the joy of conception can quickly be replaced by the grief of losing a child as a result of miscarriage or placental abnormalities. Why does this happen?
The causes can be different and one of them is a glandular polyp of the endometrium. In the presence of one large or multiple growths in the uterus, the probability of getting pregnant is significantly reduced, even though the tests do not show any abnormality that could prevent pregnancy.
The uterine polyps themselves do not in any way interfere with the process of fertilization of the egg. But then it must pass through the cervical canal into the uterus and fixate on its back wall. And that's where the problems begin. Polyps in the cervical canal do not allow the egg to enter the uterine cavity, and those that are formed from the endometrium of the uterine body, prevent implantation of the embryo. Most often, neoplasms are just formed on the back wall of the uterus. And even if the embryo manages to get a foothold, there is a high risk of rejection after a little time (miscarriage). After all, the presence of polyps affects the contractility of the uterus, increasing it.
No less unpleasant outcome can be considered placental separation at a later term. Usually this is exactly what happens at the site of a polyp. Placental abruption is a dangerous condition for the fetus, and if it is not yet ready for independent existence outside the mother's body, there is a huge risk of death of the unborn baby.
It is clear that in such a situation the pregnancy should be under constant control of doctors, who will monitor the level of estrogen and progesterone, any changes in the endometrium, the state of the perineal egg, and the placenta. A woman may not feel the danger of an ordinary benign tumor, but it can hide a double risk: a certain (albeit small) probability of degeneration into cancer and the danger of losing the baby at any stage of pregnancy.
It must be said that the probability of getting pregnant in the presence of an endometrial polyp is extremely low. The onset of pregnancy in this condition, many people call it a miracle. Doctors insist on regular gynecological examinations of future mothers, and when polyps are detected - on their treatment, after which the chance of becoming a mother is significantly increased, even though there is still a risk of recurrence (usually after 11-12 months). It is believed that after 2-3 menstrual cycles, pregnancy becomes quite possible and safe.
If a polyp is detected in a pregnant woman, it is not removed unless absolutely necessary before the onset of labor, but only monitor the situation. If there is intense growth of the neoplasm, suspected malignization of cells or the growth is inflamed, it is an indication for removal of the neoplasm during pregnancy. It is clear that if the polyp is localized at the bottom of the uterus near the placenta, the operation becomes dangerous for the fetus, which once again confirms the importance of gynecological examination of the future mother at the stage of planning pregnancy.
Forms
In medicine, there is no unified classification of polyposis formations. In gynecology, it is customary to subdivide endometrial polyps into:
- Simple glandular polyps (functional type), developing against the background of hormonal shifts,
- Simple glandular-fibrous polyps resulting from prolonged inflammation (usually initially infected),
- simple fibrous polyps with a low content of glandular tissue (characteristic of women after 40 years of age),
- adenomatous glandular polyps (adenoma in women - a rare type of polyps) with a high risk of degeneration into a cancerous tumor; risk factors: menopause period (metabolic disorders, endocrine diseases);
A glandular polyp with fibrosis (with fibrous stroma) is usually the result of STIs and urogenital infections. Its size ranges from a few millimeters to one and a half centimeters. Most often such polyps have a thin stalk and a dense structure.
Hyperplastic glandular polyp - a consequence of proliferation (abnormal development) of epithelial glands. In this case, the structure of the mucous membrane of the organ remains unchanged. These neoplasms are considered precancerous conditions, although the risk of their degeneration is small (about 1%).
It should be noted that the glandular polyp does not always occur with dysplasia. Sometimes the cause of growth formation is excessive multiplication of cells of the mucous membrane.
Glandular polyp of proliferative type (functional or basal) is characterized by the fact that the cells that make it up are actively dividing. Thanks to this, the polyp grows, maintaining a rounded, regular shape, most often with a smooth surface.
Glandular polyp with focal proliferation of the basal type, as a rule, has an irregular shape, may have a granular structure, false papillae, in the pedicle localized thick-walled blood vessels in the form of tubules.
Proliferative and dysplastic processes occur in only one part of the polyps. But there is another outcome, in which there is not growth, but regression of the tumor. The diagnosis of "glandular polyp with epidermization" indicates that the glandular structures of the neoplasm are overlapped by multilayered squamous epithelium, which caused the polyp to stop growing.
Glandular stromal polyp is a polymorphous formation consisting of fibers of different structure and type. Along with them there is another, more rare type of benign tumors - glandular cystic polyp. This is a fairly large neoplasm (0.5-6 centimeters in diameter) oblong, cone-shaped or irregular shape with a smooth flat surface, above which sometimes protrude the contours of cystic cavities filled not with fibers, but colorless fluid. On the surface of such polyps can be seen vessels
Adenomatous polyps have the appearance of dull, friable growths of grayish color. Their size rarely exceeds 1, 5 cm, and the favorite place of localization is considered the cervical canal closer to the fallopian tubes. Adenomatous foci can be found inside glandular cystic formations, which makes it difficult to determine the type of polyp.
Complications and consequences
We see that the glandular polyp of the endometrium is not a safe neoplasm at all. Not only does it prevent pregnancy, but it can also cause its termination at any term. For the same mommy it carries another danger - the risk of degeneration into an oncological problem. Moreover, the second danger is relevant to polyps of any localization.
It is believed that a polyp of the stomach, esophagus, gallbladder, and intestine can eventually develop into a cancerous tumor. But the risk is higher when the polyp is located in the colon. The greatest tendency to change their properties have adenomatous polyps. If this neoplasm is less than 1 cm in size, the probability of malignization is slightly more than 1%, but it is worth it to grow a little more (1-2 cm) and the risk increases to almost 8%. Further growth of a colon polyp is incredibly dangerous, because it turns into cancer in 40-42 people out of 100. These are already frightening numbers.
Other types of glandular polyps may also be less likely to develop into malignant tumors. In this case, factors that increase the risk of cancer are considered to be: large size or intensive growth of the neoplasm, as well as the presence of a group of polyps.
Less dangerous, but no less unpleasant is the inflammation of the growth, which often happens when it is traumatized and infected. Most often polyps arise on the background of already existing chronic inflammation, but the growth itself can easily become involved in the process. First, it is initially in most cases becomes a reservoir of infection, because inflammation of internal organs usually does not occur in an empty place. In addition, the focus of inflammation is very attractive for opportunistic bacteria living in our body.
A glandular polyp with inflammation of an infectious nature is a source of infection for the whole body. But a non-inflammatory polyp can also become a non-inflammatory polyp if it is regularly traumatized, such as during sexual intercourse (if the polyp protrudes beyond the cervix), the passage of feces through the intestines or solid food through the esophagus. Traumatizing a polyp increases the risk of both inflammation (and there are always bacteria in the body, especially in the intestines) and the transformation of a safe benign tumor into a malignant one.
And yet, dangerous consequences and complications can be easily avoided by removing the polyp without waiting until it reaches critical size or develops into cancer. Modern medicine offers generally safe and minimally traumatic operations for the removal of polyps on internal organs. True, and here remains the risk of recurrence of the disease and the need for repeated operations. But it is better to remove a polyp (even if only a few times) than to remove part of an organ or even the whole organ in case of cancer. In this case, the prognosis for recovery and life of the patient will depend on the stage of cancer, ie, the neglect of the process.
Diagnostics of the glandular polyp
Since polyps can appear on the mucosa of different organs, from the throat and nose to the rectum, the diagnosis of this pathology has to be carried out by doctors of different specializations. Detection and treatment of polyps in the nose and throat are engaged in otolaryngologists. Polyps in the reproductive system are diagnosed by female doctors during gynecological examinations or ultrasound. Polyps in the gastrointestinal tract are treated by gastroenterologists and proctologists.
But here's the problem. Since polyps do not remind of themselves for a long time, they are most often discovered accidentally during an examination for another disease, and then the patient is referred to the right specialist for further diagnosis and treatment.
Since the glandular polyp is most often found in the organs of the GI tract or uterus, we will consider the diagnosis of pathology on the example of these organs.
The gynecologist can diagnose cervical polyps already during the examination of the patient on the gynecological chair. Inspection with the help of special mirrors allows to assess the condition of the vaginal part of the cervix, and if the neoplasm protrudes beyond its limits, the doctor can see it with the naked eye.
The degree of malignancy of the neoplasm can be determined only after its removal and histology. The result of histological analysis of the biopsy (biopsy of the polyp is performed beforehand) has a great influence on the patient's treatment tactics, but it requires time and special equipment. A preliminary result can be obtained by colposcopy with staining of the growth with fluorochrome. In ultraviolet rays healthy tissue and malignant colored differently. But the final diagnosis is possible only after a biopsy (often after removal of the polyp, especially when suspected cancer).
Polyps inside the uterus and in the cervical canal can be detected (and their size estimated) by instrumental diagnostics, in particular ultrasound. The results of this examination on the 5-7th day after menstruation are particularly revealing.
Another quite informative gynecological examination is hysteroscopy. This is a minimally invasive procedure that allows you to assess the tissues inside the uterus and its cervix. During this procedure, the polyp can be removed immediately with microinstruments (hysteroresectoscopy, similar to laparoscopic surgery).
Detection of polyps in the reproductive system is also an indication for their treatment (removal). At this stage, the patient will have to undergo multiple tests:
- general blood test
- urinalysis
- blood chemistry
- blood tests for syphilis, HIV, hepatitis
- Blood group and Rh factor test (if necessary)
- gynecological smear
- cytologic examination of the cervical smear
You should also have a coagulogram, ECG results, ultrasound, colposcopy, fluorogram, information about vaccinations.
Polyps in the gastrointestinal tract are usually detected during an FGDS, colonoscopy or rectal palpation by a proctologist. Intestinal polyposis can also be diagnosed during laparoscopic examination of the abdominal cavity. Diagnostic manipulations can be carried out both in connection with the patient's complaints and other diseases, which is more likely, given the almost asymptomatic development of polyps.
Endoscopic examination makes it possible to immediately remove the neoplasm, which after removal is taken for histological examination. However, for this purpose, the patient must have the results of tests and examinations:
- General blood test (valid for 2 weeks)
- urinalysis (valid for 2 weeks)
- Biochemical blood test (valid for 2 weeks)
- Syphilis test (Wassermann or complex)
- coprogram
- ultrasonography
- ECG (valid for 1 month)
- fluorography
- vaccinations
- Results of preliminary GI examination: FGDS, colonoscopy and X-ray of the large intestine (irrigography), pelvic ultrasound, CT, MRI
- Serologic tests (presence or absence of Helicobacter pylori).
Particular attention is paid to differential diagnosis, because the appearance of polyps differ little from myoma, cysts or cancerous tumors. It is very important to make an accurate diagnosis by determining the nature of the neoplasm, although subsequently after removal of the growth is necessarily carried out histological study of its cells to exclude or confirm cancer, because it fundamentally affects the tactics of further treatment.
Treatment of the glandular polyp
Glandular polyps - tumor formations and, despite their benign nature, doctors believe that the growths should be removed without waiting for complications and even more so the outgrowth of cancer. In principle, this is the basis of treatment of pathology, because drug therapy and especially folk treatment can not radically solve the problem.
And yet not all patients agree to surgery, because in fact the neoplasm does not bother them, which dulls their vigilance. Surgical intervention, even minimally invasive, scares people who do not think about the consequences that can have drug treatment. And it is also in most cases ineffective.
But what can the medical treatment of polyps be? This includes hormonal therapy, if it is a functional type of polyps that are sensitive to changes in hormonal balance. Such treatment is intended to stop the growth of the neoplasm, but, as a rule, does not lead to its resorption.
Hormones can be prescribed as fields of correction of imbalance (for example, female hormonal agents that normalize the menstrual cycle, "Diane-35", "Yarina", "Jes", "Dufaston", herbal phytohormones), and as anti-inflammatory agents (corticosteroids).
Against the background of inflammation of the growth, as well as with the twisting of its stem (some polyps have a thin stem and are quite mobile), patients may experience palpable pain. In this case, symptomatic therapy is carried out to relieve pain. Orally, drugs from the category of NSAIDs, which have a complex analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect, are usually prescribed. But the problem is that with prolonged use, they become the cause of problems with the GI tract, having a strong irritating effect on the mucosa.
With polyps in the reproductive system, additional therapy is carried out to prevent infection of the growth, which can cause increased fasting of the neoplasm. Within its framework, antiseptic solutions are used (potassium permanganate solution, preparations "Septadine", "Miramistin", etc.).
But since the formation of polyps is not noted in an empty place, and in most cases it contributes to the inflammatory process provoked by infection (bacteria, viruses, protozoa), before treating directly glandular polyp doctors are engaged in the treatment of the underlying disease, considered as the cause of tissue pathology.
If STIs are diagnosed, specific treatment is carried out: antiviral, antibacterial (after determining the type of bacteria), immunomodulatory therapy. If the result is negative for sexual infections, interferon inducers, immunostimulants are prescribed.
Removal of uterine polyps is mainly performed surgically, but in the case of small-sized neoplasms, alternative methods may be used. For example, a fairly popular procedure can be called cauterization of uterine polyps with acids. In this regard, the drug "Solkovagin" is often used.
In the case of GI polyps, a bacterial infection test is also performed. If polyps are localized in the stomach, Helicobacter pylori eradication is performed first and then the polyps are removed.
In case of GI polyps, surgical intervention is considered to be the only correct one. Although today you can find on sale and some drugs, whose manufacturers insist that their means contributes to the resorption of neoplasms, having an antitumor effect. These include herbal suppositories "Chistobolin" with hemlock from the company "Amrita".
Medications
For those who do not dare to fight polyps with surgical methods, considered the most effective, we will give information about the drugs used in the conservative treatment. The same means can be used in the recovery period after surgical removal of polyps in order to prevent complications and recurrences.
"Dufaston" - a hormonal drug based on dydrogesterone, which doctors prescribe in conditions characterized by progesterone deficiency, as part of substitution therapy, to stop uterine bleeding. It should be said that there are positive reviews about the treatment of endometrial polyps with it, but there are also many women to whom the drug did not help to avoid surgery.
The drug is prescribed in the form of tablets usually in a dosage of 10 mg 1-3 times a day. The course of treatment and the actual dose are established by the attending physician.
The hormonal drug is prescribed to patients over 18 years of age. The drug is allowed for use during pregnancy as prescribed by a doctor.
But "Duphaston" also has a sufficient number of contraindications. These include: hypersensitivity to the drug composition, progestagen-dependent neoplasms (identified or suspected), bleeding from the genital organs of unclear etiology, malignant tumors, liver pathologies with organ dysfunction, galactose intolerance, porphyria, breastfeeding.
If the drug is prescribed in combination with estrogens, contraindications may include: endometrial hyperplasia, vascular thrombosis and predisposition to them (angina pectoris, severe obesity, advanced age, etc.).
The drug also has multiple side effects (such are the realities of hormone therapy). The most common ones (headaches, breast sensitivity, menstrual irregularities, menstrual pain, nausea) are not particularly harmful to health.
Among the side effects, detected more often than in 1 patient out of 100, are: weight gain, dermatitis, liver dysfunction, dizziness, vomiting, depression. Other adverse reactions are rarely noted.
"Miramistin" is a popular antiseptic with a wide range of applications in medicine. It is effective both against bacteria and in the fight against complex viruses (herpes, HIV, etc.). The popularity of the drug is also due to the actual absence of side effects, the possibility of use during pregnancy, unlimited course of use without undesirable effects.
In gynecology, antiseptic solution is used for irrigation and impregnation of tampons (they are placed for 2 hours for 2 weeks and more to relieve inflammation and prevent the spread of infection). It can be used for electrophoresis.
Contraindication to the use of antiseptic is only individual sensitivity to the drug, and among the side effects can be noted a slight burning sensation, which passes quickly and without consequences. Other symptoms of mucosal irritation (itching, redness, a feeling of dryness) are noted very rarely.
"Chistobolin" - herbal suppositories based on hemlock and burdock root. Used for the prevention of benign and malignant tumors, including polyps of the intestine and uterus. Due to the analgesic, anti-edematous, resorbing (antitumor) action of the drug can be used as part of the complex treatment of polyps. It is especially effective for small-sized neoplasms.
Due to the inclusion of burdock extract, the drug has antimicrobial and styptic effect.
To increase the effectiveness of treatment, it is recommended to follow a vegetarian diet and cleanse the intestines daily with acidified water.
The suppositories are used daily at night for a course of up to 10 days. One suppository should be inserted into the vagina or rectum.
Contraindications to the use of suppositories is pregnancy, breastfeeding, childhood. Do not use the drug and in case of individual intolerance to its components.
Despite the fact that the drug uses poisonous plant material (hemlock), the gradual dosed release of the active ingredient prevents the phenomena of intoxication of the body, so the usual side effects of the drug are not noted.
"Solkovagin" is a concentrated acid solution used in gynecology for the treatment (cauterization) of cervical canal polyps with a healthy endometrium.
The drug is applied topically, strictly on the affected area of the cervix after cleansing it from vaginal secretion and treatment with a weak solution of acetic acid (allows you to delineate the boundaries of application).
"Solcovagine" is used during colposcopy. The solution is applied twice with a 2-minute interval. The single dose is ½ vial.
After treatment of the polyp with the solution after a few days, control examinations are carried out (10, 24, 38 days). In case of unsatisfactory results, the treatment is repeated.
The drug is not prescribed in case of hypersensitivity to acids included in the drug, suspected uterine oncology, dysplastic processes. It is not used in pregnancy.
Side effects and degenerative changes of uterine tissues after treatment with the solution are not noted.
Folk treatment
This part of our article is dedicated to those who do not trust medicine and believe that any disease can be cured naturally by the fruits of Mother Nature and improvised means. Immediately note that doctors are categorically against such treatment, because even medications are not always able to stop the growth and even more destroy glandular polyp. And treatment with folk methods can only delay recovery, if you do not get in his way. After all, most often it is lost time, neglected disease or even cancer, if treatment provoked tumor growth.
But doctors recommend, and the last word still remains with patients. So what can folk medicine offer us against polyps?
Let's start with propolis, which according to the recipe is taken internally in glandular polyp of any localization. Propolis is taken in powder (10 g) and mixed with pre-melted quality butter (1:10). 0 minutes the composition is heated on a water bath, not letting it boil or burn.
Take the drug for a three-week course of 1 tsp. Three times a day for an hour before meals. Repeat the course can be repeated after 2 weeks.
Contraindication to such treatment is liver disease.
A remedy based on yolks and pumpkin seeds. Yolks (7 pcs.) take boiled, seeds (6 tbsp.) - peeled from the skin. With the help of a coffee grinder seeds are ground into flour, mixed with yolks grated through a sieve and ½ liter of sunflower oil. Heat on a water bath for 20 minutes, cool and put in the refrigerator.
Take the drug for polyps of any localization inside 1 tsp. In the morning. The course of treatment - until the end of the composition. Scheme of reception - 5 through 5.
Shilajit. For the preparation of the drug will require natural mumie, not containing impurities. It is taken daily 0.5 g with milk or grape juice course of 20 days. After a month's break, the course of treatment is repeated. The total duration of treatment is 6 months.
It is considered particularly effective for uterine polyps.
Kalina. And this recipe will come in handy for those who suffer from stomach polyps. 3-4 tbsp. Berries of calamus pour boiling water (1/2 liter) and insist for an hour. The composition is divided into 3 receptions. Take it every day between meals.
Sea buckthorn oil. It is used for polyps in the rectum. Fingers are dipped in slightly heated oil and inserted into the anus (repeat 3 times in a row).
Beforehand, it is recommended to steam in a basin with a herbal decoction (chamomile, St. John's wort, yarrow, etc.) for 2 hours. The water during the whole procedure should not be very hot, but not cold either.
Treatment with herbs is one of the components of folk treatment, because people have long known about the healing properties of different plants. As for the glandular polyp, to combat it, plants with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory effect are used, given that inflammation is a favorable environment for the formation and growth of the neoplasm.
With polyps localized in the cervix area, you can carry out spritzing with herbal decoction. Yarrow, rosemary, sage, oak bark take 2 tbsp. Per 2.5 liters of boiling water and boil the composition for half an hour. When the decoction cools, strain and use 2 times a day until the signs of inflammation disappear.
For internal intake for uterine polyps, you can use the herb hog uterus, which helps with many female problems. It is used to prepare a decoction or tincture.
For a decoction take 1 tbsp. Of plant material in 1 tbsp. Of hot water, boil for 10 minutes, then cool and strain. Single dose - 1 tbsp. Decoction. Frequency of intake - 4 times a day.
For the tincture we will need 5 tbsp. Of herbs and quality vodka (1/2 liter). We infuse the medicine for 21 days, placing it in a dark place. It is recommended to periodically shake the composition. Ready tincture should be strained and taken, gradually increasing the dose from 15 to 30 drops per reception. The frequency of intake - 3 times a day. Take the medicine before meals.
Polyps in the intestine can be treated with celandine. It is a toxic herb, so you should be careful not to exceed the dosage and do not ignore breaks in treatment.
In the treatment of polyps use the juice of the plant, diluting it in water. This composition is used for enemas. Treatment course. First, 1 liter of water take 1h.l. Celandine juice. Put enemas for 15 days, followed by a 2-week break. The next 15-day course of treatment involves increasing the concentration of the solution (1 tbsp. L. Juice per 1 liter of water). Then there is another two-week break and another 15-day course of treatment (the concentration of the solution is not increased).
It is believed that such treatment should get rid of polyps. But if this has not happened, treatment according to the same scheme can be repeated after 4 months.
It is difficult to say how useful folk medicine recipes can be in each specific case. Doctors do not recommend self-treatment, and folk recipes should be used only as auxiliary means (against inflammation and infection).
Homeopathy
Glandular polyp - this is the pathology, the opinion on the treatment of which the doctors of traditional medicine and homeopaths generally agree. Both agree that neoplasms are better to remove, because there is a risk of inflammation, ulceration, degeneration into cancer. Those homeopathic remedies prescribed by doctors of alternative medicine, form the basis of basic therapy, which helps to relieve the symptoms of the underlying disease, inhibit the growth of polyps and prepare for its removal.
Drugs are prescribed based on the localization of polyps. But there is a certain list of drugs that are universal for polyps of any type and location. This includes such remedies:
- Psorinohel H drops (single dose - 10 drops)
- Hormel CH solution (single dose - 10 drops)
- Bariumodel tablets (single dose - 1 tablet)
All medications should be taken 2 times a day.
To the above drugs can be added drugs, the appointment of which is tied to the localization of the polyp:
- for nasal polyps - Naso-Heel C drops,
- for bladder polyps, Renelle tablets,
There is a definite list of homeopathic remedies for symptomatic therapy:
- for pain and burning - Sanguinaria-Injeel,
- for mucus discharge associated with polyps (polyps of the nose, bladder, uterus, intestines) - Hydrastis-Injeel,
- for hemorrhages - Ipecacuanha-Injeel, Kreosotum-Injeel, Belladonna.
- when prone to proliferative processes (increased polyp growth) - Thuja.
In order to improve blood circulation in the mucosa prescribe drugs Placenta Compositum and Mucosa Compositum German company Heel.
After a one-month course of treatment, special drugs (suis-organ components) are prescribed, optimizing the work of the affected organ. These injectables are prescribed strictly taking into account the localization of polyps:
- for nasal polyps - Mucosa nasalis,
- for bladder polyps - Vesica urinaria,
- for intestinal polyps - Rectum, Colon,
- for uterine polyps - Uterus, Ovarium.
Injections are made intramuscularly at intervals of 1 week. The single dose is 1 ampoule.
Homeopaths do not guarantee that, having undergone the entire course of treatment, the patient will be able to get rid of polyps or be sure that in the future the neoplasm will not begin to grow again and will not develop into cancer. After all, even with the removal of polyps by surgery is not always possible to completely stop the process. But homeopathic treatment, carried out after surgery to excise the polyp, will help to avoid recurrences.
Surgical treatment
It is unlikely that you can get rid of polyps without surgery. But should you be afraid of surgery, which in the modern world is carried out with microsurgical instruments sometimes even during diagnosis. These are minimally invasive interventions, quite available at an early stage, when the growth is not too large and is not prone to degeneration.
The choice of an effective treatment for a glandular polyp depends on its size and location.
Nasal polyps are removed by one of several methods offered by clinics: mechanical (using a scalpel or a special loop), laser, radio wave, freezing (cryomethod), endoscopic (endoscope with a shaver).
Hysteroscopy is considered the most common method for uterine polyps. It is performed using an optical device - a hysteroscope (resectoscope) and a curette, which is used to scrape out abnormal tissues. The site of excision of the base of the polyp is cauterized with an electric current or liquid nitrogen.
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia.
This method is used regardless of the size of polyps, their number and type. But it can have certain complications: menstrual disorders, bleeding, pain during sexual intercourse. There is a risk of infection of the wound.
If the clinic does not have the appropriate equipment, a laparotomy is performed. The polyp is removed through an incision in the peritoneum.
A more modern method of polyp removal is laser removal. The laser knife excises the polyp tissue and fuses the walls of blood vessels, which reduces the risk of bleeding and infection. Anesthesia is not required. Complications are extremely rare. Nevertheless, doctors perform such an operation only after making sure that the neoplasm is not malignant. The laser does not leave biomaterial for histologic study.
Endoscopy and laparoscopy are used in the removal of polyps of the bladder, pelvic organs, including the intestines.
Polyps in the stomach are removed endoscopically (with the help of a current loop). If the polyp is large (more than 3 cm), open surgery is performed. If a malignant tumor is detected, resection (removal of part of the organ) is performed.
Transanal excision is considered to be the most popular method for intestinal polyps. This operation is performed if the polyp is located at a depth of no more than 10 cm from the anus.
As an option, electrocoagulation performed with a colonoscope may be practiced.
If it is impossible to perform these types of surgery resort to colotomy (polyp is removed through an incision in the abdominal cavity).
If polyps are large, transanal endomicrosurgical excision is practiced; in malignant neoplasms, transanal bowel resection or open surgery is practiced.
In the esophagus, polyps (even multiple polyps) are removed endoscopically with a loop with a current attached to it.
Forecast
Glandular polyp is a neoplasm that is found in 10% of the population every year. It is not yet cancer, but the tumor has the property to degenerate, even if not so often. The prognosis for treatment of polyps depends both on the type of tumor and on the timeliness of referral to doctors.
Adenomatous polyps are considered the most dangerous, as they turn into cancer more often than others. If the growth is detected in time, it can be safely removed. When the transition to malignant form may require removal of the part of the organ where the polyp is located. But even this does not guarantee a full recovery.
It should be said that the removal of polyps does not always give a permanent result. Often there are recurrences of the disease after about a year, which requires a second operation.
As for the prevention of polyps, the prevention of inflammatory processes in different organs and timely treatment of infectious and inflammatory diseases is the first priority. After all, it is a long-lasting inflammatory process is precisely the soil for the appearance of growths on the mucosa.
In the case of the reproductive system in women, STIs are often the cause of inflammation. This again shows the need for protection if there are doubts about the sexual health of the partner.
It is equally important to monitor the hormonal balance in the body. However, it is not always possible to do this, because such conditions as pregnancy and menopause, in any case become the cause of imbalance of hormones. And here to help come to the aid of doctors who will suggest a way out of the situation. This can be taking hormones or phytohormones.
Take hormonal drugs should be strictly prescribed by a doctor!
With regard to GI polyps, a rational diet, a healthy lifestyle and timely treatment of any diseases of the digestive system come to the forefront.
An important role is played by routine check-ups with specialists, which after 40-50 years of age should be done regularly. Colonoscopy is mandatory for everyone over 50 years of age. For women over 40 years of age, gynecologist examinations are recommended at least once a year (preferably once every six months).
Glandular polyp does not like those who carefully monitor their health. Regular medical examinations will help to identify the tumor in time and prevent it from benign to malignant. And timely treatment of inflammatory diseases and control of hormones will not give the polyp a chance for life.