Digestive Biopsy Results After Colonoscopy and Endoscopy - Gastroenterology and Hepatology

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Understanding biopsy results after undergoing a colonoscopy and endoscopy can be quite daunting, especially when you are left without immediate explanations from your healthcare providers. It’s essential to clarify what these results mean and the implications they may have for your health.

From the biopsy reports you provided, there are several key findings that can help us understand your situation better. The results indicate chronic inflammation in the rectum and stomach, as well as findings related to polyps in the colon. Here’s a breakdown of what these findings mean:
1. Chronic Inflammation: The biopsy from the rectum shows chronic follicular inflammation, which is a nonspecific response that can occur due to various reasons, including infections, irritants, or autoimmune conditions. The presence of intact mucosal glands and no evidence of malignancy is reassuring. Similarly, the gastric biopsies show chronic gastritis with foveolar hyperplasia, indicating a reactive process rather than a malignant one. The absence of Helicobacter pylori in these samples is also notable, as this bacterium is often associated with gastric inflammation and ulcers.

2. Polyps and Adenomas: The report from your sigmoid colon indicates a tubular adenoma with low-grade dysplasia. Tubular adenomas are considered precursors to colorectal cancer, but they are benign lesions. Low-grade dysplasia means that the cells show some abnormal features, but they are not cancerous. The risk of cancer developing from such polyps is generally low, especially if they are removed completely, as was done in your case.

3. Follow-Up Recommendations: After the removal of polyps, it is standard practice to schedule follow-up colonoscopies. The timing of these follow-ups can vary based on several factors, including the number and type of polyps found, as well as your personal and family medical history. Generally, if a low-grade tubular adenoma is removed, a follow-up colonoscopy is recommended in 3 to 5 years. However, your healthcare provider may suggest a different timeline based on your specific circumstances.

4. Why Not Immediate Removal?: Your concern about why some lesions or polyps are not removed immediately during the procedure is valid. In some cases, the location, size, or appearance of a polyp may make it challenging to remove safely during the initial examination. Additionally, some polyps may require further evaluation or a different technique for removal. If a polyp appears suspicious for cancer, a biopsy may be taken to assess its nature before deciding on the best course of action.

5. Communication with Your Healthcare Team: It’s understandable to feel anxious when you do not receive immediate feedback from your healthcare team. It’s crucial to communicate your concerns and questions during follow-up appointments. If you feel uncertain about the findings or the next steps, don’t hesitate to reach out to your doctor for clarification. They can provide you with a detailed explanation of your results, the significance of the findings, and the rationale behind the treatment plan.

In summary, while the biopsy results indicate some areas of concern, they also show that there are no immediate signs of malignancy. The findings suggest a need for monitoring and follow-up, rather than urgent intervention. It’s essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare providers to ensure you understand your health status and the necessary steps moving forward. Remember, proactive management and regular screenings are key components in preventing colorectal cancer and addressing any gastrointestinal issues effectively.