How Often Should You Monitor Gastric Polyps? Key Insights for Patients

Q: How Often Should You Monitor Gastric Polyps? Key Insights for Patients

Hello： 1. The time for polyps to grow back and the potential for cancerization is not fixed. Fundic gland polyps do not undergo cancerization; only adenomas have the potential to become cancerous. 2. Follow-up can be done every one to three years. 3. If th

What is the typical duration for a follow-up period?

Hello, Doctor.
In January 2015, I underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy, during which a 0.35 mm benign, sessile polyp was found at the gastric fundus and was immediately removed.
(The biopsy results indicated a fundic gland polyp, negative for Helicobacter pylori, and negative for dysplasia or malignancy.) There was mild gastritis in the gastric antrum and body (stomach, gastric mucosal biopsy: mild chronic gastritis, inactive, negative for Helicobacter pylori, and negative for dysplasia or malignancy).
It has been two years since then, and recently I have been experiencing discomfort in my stomach, including occasional stomach pain, belching, and regurgitation.
I would like to ask the doctor:
1.
Generally, how long does it take for gastric polyps to regrow? If a polyp were to undergo changes leading to cancer, how long would that typically take?
2.
If gastric polyps are discovered, how often should follow-up endoscopies be performed?
3.
Given my situation, it has been two years since my last endoscopy; would it be appropriate to undergo another one now?
4.
Additionally, is there a high risk of a fundic gland polyp progressing to cancer? What is the likelihood of recurrence?
Thank you very much! Wishing you good health, Doctor.

Wu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/01/05

Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology

Hello: 1.
The time for polyps to grow back and the potential for cancerization is not fixed.
Fundic gland polyps do not undergo cancerization; only adenomas have the potential to become cancerous.
2.
Follow-up can be done every one to three years.
3.
If there are symptoms, you can seek medical attention, and the physician will determine if an endoscopy is necessary.
4.
Fundic gland polyps are a result of glandular hyperplasia, and the probability is uncertain.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Dr.
Tsai An-Shun.

Reply Date: 2017/01/05

More Info

Monitoring gastric polyps, particularly fundic gland polyps, is an important aspect of gastrointestinal health management. Based on your history and the details provided, let's address your questions and provide some insights into the nature of gastric polyps and the appropriate follow-up care.

1. Regrowth of Gastric Polyps and Cancer Risk: Gastric polyps can vary in their growth rates depending on their type. Fundic gland polyps, which are often benign and associated with conditions like chronic gastritis or the use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), typically do not have a high rate of recurrence. The time it takes for a polyp to regrow can vary widely, but many studies suggest that if they do recur, it may take several years. The transformation from a benign polyp to cancer is rare, especially for fundic gland polyps. Generally, it is believed that the progression from a benign polyp to malignancy, if it occurs, can take many years, often over a decade.

2. Follow-Up Endoscopy: The guidelines for monitoring gastric polyps recommend that patients with fundic gland polyps undergo surveillance endoscopy every 3 to 5 years, depending on the number and size of the polyps. Since your previous polyp was small and benign, a follow-up in two years is reasonable, especially given your current symptoms. However, if you are experiencing new or worsening symptoms like gastric pain, belching, or regurgitation, it is advisable to consult your physician sooner for a reassessment.

3. Timing for Repeat Endoscopy: Given that you have experienced symptoms after a two-year interval since your last endoscopy, it would be prudent to schedule another endoscopy. Symptoms such as abdominal pain and discomfort warrant further investigation to rule out any new developments, including the presence of new polyps or other gastric conditions.

4. Risk of Malignancy in Fundic Gland Polyps: Fundic gland polyps are generally considered low-risk for malignant transformation. The risk of these polyps becoming cancerous is very low, especially in the absence of dysplasia (abnormal cell growth). The recurrence rate for fundic gland polyps is also low, particularly if they are solitary and small. However, if you have multiple polyps or if there are changes in their appearance, closer monitoring may be warranted.

In summary, while fundic gland polyps are typically benign and have a low risk of cancer, it is essential to monitor them appropriately. Given your symptoms and the time elapsed since your last endoscopy, it would be wise to consult your healthcare provider about scheduling a follow-up endoscopy. Regular monitoring can help ensure that any changes in your gastric health are detected early, allowing for timely intervention if necessary. Always communicate any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider, as they can guide you on the best course of action for your specific situation.

Similar Q&A

Post-Colonoscopy Concerns: How Often Should You Get Checked?

Hello Doctor: I am a 26-year-old male. I underwent a painless colonoscopy and gastroscopy in August of this year (2016). Prior to this, I frequently experienced constipation (sometimes severe enough that I would only have a bowel movement every two weeks, averaging more than once...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
For individuals with a history of polyps, follow-up every 2-3 years is not too long, unless other symptoms arise, in which case they should consult a gastroenterologist.

Managing Gallbladder Polyps: Prevention and Dietary Tips

I have had gallbladder polyps for about 10 years and have been undergoing regular ultrasound examinations every year. What preventive measures and maintenance should I take, and how should I adjust my diet?

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: Gallbladder polyps should be monitored with ultrasound every six months. If they are larger than 1 cm, cholecystectomy is required. Generally, it is related to individual constitution, and only monitoring is necessary. Some studies suggest a possible correlation with fat i...

Understanding Colon Polyps: Monitoring and Management Strategies

Hello Doctor, I have been monitoring my colorectal polyps for four years now. Each year, I have developed some small polyps, which the doctor said are hyperplastic and related to my constitution. The doctor has removed the small ones using a biopsy forceps. During this year'...

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery
The guidelines for monitoring colorectal polyps state that if polyps are found during a colonoscopy and removed, a follow-up colonoscopy should be performed two years later. If polyps are again found during the second colonoscopy and removed, another colonoscopy should be conduct...

How Often Should You Get Colonoscopy and Gastroscopy?

I had a colonoscopy last June, which showed only mild intestinal inflammation. In September, I had an upper endoscopy that indicated mild gastroesophageal reflux. I would like to ask the doctor how often I should have a colonoscopy and an upper endoscopy. Also, I'm not sure ...

Dr. Chen Qifeng reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
There are no guidelines specifying how often to perform gastroscopy or colonoscopy, unless there are significant lesions that need to be monitored. Loose stools may be related to medication, and it is advisable to consult a physician, as there may also be issues related to intest...