Unclear Medical Test Results: A Patient's Concern

Are there any test results that cannot be interpreted?

Hello, Dr.
Hsieh: About three to four months ago, after I had a bowel movement, I was shocked to find that the toilet paper was covered in blood, which was quite a significant amount and bright red in color.
I was somewhat worried but did not seek medical attention immediately.
After some time, similar symptoms reappeared.
The first time I visited an internal medicine doctor (I am not sure of the doctor's specialty), who performed a digital rectal examination and mentioned that I had mild internal hemorrhoids, which could be the cause of the bleeding.
The doctor prescribed some medication for me.
After a while, the symptoms recurred, and during my second visit, I consulted a family physician who referred me for a colonoscopy.
During the colonoscopy, I saw two polyps, approximately the size of peanuts, which were removed and sent for pathology examination.
The results came back, and both doctors interpreted them the same way: one polyp was normal, while the other was slightly abnormal.
At that time, I was very concerned about the possibility of something sinister in my colon and repeatedly asked for a specific answer, but the gastroenterologist only advised me to return for a follow-up in three months.
Now that the three months have passed, I have been preoccupied with this matter.
I would like to ask you, Dr.
Hsieh: 1.
Are there medical test reports that cannot be interpreted? 2.
Can I take notes during this upcoming examination so that you can help me interpret them? P.S.
The polyps were located in the sigmoid colon, and since their removal, I have not experienced any rectal bleeding.

xiang gong, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/02/24

Dr. Xie Rongyuan reply Internal Medicine

1.
A colonoscopy revealed the presence of polyps, and upon biopsy, one of them appeared somewhat abnormal.
The physician advised a follow-up examination in three months, and it is recommended to return to the hospital for further evaluation.
2.
The report on the polyp condition indicates some abnormalities, which may be related to the biopsy location.
A follow-up examination is necessary to address this, especially since polyps can change over time.

Reply Date: 2004/02/24

More Info

It sounds like you have been through a concerning experience regarding your health, particularly with the discovery of blood in your stool and the subsequent findings of polyps during a colonoscopy. I understand that medical terminology and test results can often be confusing, and it's completely normal to seek clarification.

1. Understanding Medical Test Results: Medical test results can sometimes be difficult to interpret, especially when they contain technical jargon or when the implications of the findings are not clearly communicated. In your case, the presence of polyps in the colon is a significant finding. Polyps are growths on the lining of the colon, and while many are benign, some can develop into colorectal cancer over time. The fact that one polyp was described as "normal" and the other as "a bit abnormal" raises the need for careful monitoring. The term "abnormal" can refer to various characteristics, such as size, shape, or cellular changes that may indicate a higher risk for cancer.
2. Follow-Up and Monitoring: It is standard practice to recommend follow-up colonoscopies after the removal of polyps, especially if one of them was found to have abnormal characteristics. The typical recommendation is to have another colonoscopy in three to five years, depending on the type of polyp and your overall risk factors for colorectal cancer. Since you mentioned that you have not experienced any further bleeding since the polyps were removed, this is a positive sign. However, it is crucial to adhere to the follow-up schedule to ensure that any new polyps can be detected and managed early.

3. Documentation and Communication: When you go for your next examination, it is entirely appropriate to take notes or ask for copies of your medical records, including the pathology report of the polyps. You can bring these documents to your healthcare provider and ask them to explain the findings in detail. It’s important to understand what "a bit abnormal" means in your specific case. You have the right to ask questions until you feel comfortable with the answers.
4. Seeking Clarity: If you feel that your concerns were not adequately addressed during your previous visits, consider seeking a second opinion from a gastroenterologist who specializes in colorectal health. They can provide you with a more comprehensive understanding of your situation and the implications of your test results.

5. General Health Considerations: In addition to monitoring your colon health, it’s also beneficial to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet rich in fiber, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. These factors can help reduce your risk of developing further polyps or other gastrointestinal issues.

In summary, while medical reports can sometimes be challenging to interpret, it is essential to communicate openly with your healthcare providers. Don't hesitate to ask for clarification on any terms or findings that you do not understand. Your health is paramount, and being proactive in understanding your medical condition is a vital part of managing your health effectively.

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