Long-term endoscopic change of gastric polyp associated with administration of vonoprazan

Vonoprazan (VPZ) has been available in Japan since 2015. Endoscopic features of proton-pump inhibitor (PPI)-related gastric mucosal changes, including fundic gland and hyperplastic polyps, have been observed. However, the relationship between gastric polyps and VPZ remains unclear. A 65-year-old man with reflux esophagitis-associated symptoms refractory to PPI was referred to our hospital. VPZ (20 mg) was administered for 3 weeks, which proved effective. Afterward, VPZ dose was reduced to 10 mg; the reflux symptoms worsened, and 20 mg VPZ was restarted. Afterward, esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) revealed a gradually enlarging gastric polyp in the cardia. After 5 years of VPZ administration, the patient developed a reddish polyp (approximately 10 mm) with a whitish substance in the cardia. Based on the clinical course, the polyp was considered to have enlarged because of the long-term VPZ administration. After being informed of the endoscopic findings, the patient decided to discontinue VPZ. One year after VPZ discontinuation, EGD revealed a shrunken polyp (5 mm). Long-term acid suppression causes hypergastrinemia, which may lead to gastric mucosal changes, including gastric polyps. There are few case reports of a decrease in the number and size of gastric polyps after VPZ discontinuation. Hence, some VPZ-induced endoscopic changes may be reversible.

Classification of GIST and other benign gastric tumors based on minimally invasive surgical strategy

PURPOSE

Gastrointestinal mesenchymal tumors (GMTs) include malignant, intermediate malignancy, and benign lesions. The aim is to propose a new surgical classification to guide the intraoperative minimally invasive surgical strategy in case of non-malignant GMTs less than 5 cm.

METHODS

Primary endpoint is the creation of a classification regarding minimally invasive surgical technique for these tumors based on their gastric location. Secondary endpoint is to analyze the R0 rate and the postoperative morbidity and mortality rates. Tumors were classified in two groups based on their morphology (group A: exophytic, group B: transmural/intragastric). Each group is then divided based on the tumor location and consequently surgical technique used in subgroup: AI (whole stomach area) and AII (iuxta-cardial and pre-pyloric areas) both for the anterior and posterior gastric wall; BIa (greater curvature on the anterior and posterior wall), BIb (lesser curvature on the anterior wall); BII (iuxta-cardial and pre-pyloric area in the anterior and posterior wall, including the lesser curvature on the posterior wall).

RESULTS

Forty-two patients were classified and allocated in each subgroup: 17 in AI, 2 in AII, 5 in BIa, 3 in BIb, and 15 in BII. Two postoperative Clavien-Dindo I complications (4.8%, subgroup BIa and BIb) occurred. One patient (2.4%, subgroup AI) underwent reintervention due to R0 resection.

CONCLUSIONS

This classification proved to be able to classify gastric lesions based on their morphology, location, and surgical treatment, obtaining encouraging perioperative results. Further studies with wider sample of patients are required to draw definitive conclusions.

Risk factors associated with recurrence of gastric hyperplastic polyps: a single-center, long-term, retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

The likelihood of recurrence of gastric hyperplastic polyps (GHPs) following endoscopic resection and the need for long-term follow-up remain unknown. We, therefore, aimed to investigate the factors associated with the recurrence and cumulative incidence of GHPs over a 10-year period.

METHODS

Between May 1995 and December 2020, 1,018 GHPs > 1 cm were endoscopically resected from 869 patients. Medical records of these patients were retrospectively reviewed and their clinical features and outcomes were assessed. Groups of GHPs with recurrence and those without recurrence group were compared, and univariate and multivariable analyses were performed to identify the potential risk factors for GHP recurrence.

RESULTS

A total of 104 (12.0%) patients who underwent endoscopic removal of GHPs experienced recurrence. Compared to patients without recurrent GHPs, those with recurrent GHPs showed considerably larger median polyp size (28 mm vs. 14 mm, P < 0.001), a higher proportion of multiple polyps (41.3% vs. 29.3%, P = 0.020), polyps with lobulation (63.5% vs. 40.3%, P = 0.001), and exudate (63.5% vs. 46.8%, P = 0.001). Compared to the local recurrence (n = 52) group, the metachronous recurrence (n = 52) group had larger median polyp size (20 mm vs. 16 mm, P = 0.006) as well as higher rates of polyp lobulation (86.5% vs. 40.4%, P < 0.001) and exudate (82.7% vs. 44.4%, P = 0.001). After primary GHP excision, the cumulative incidence of recurrence was 7.2%, 12.7%, and 19.6% at 2 years, 5 years, and 10 years, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of GHP recurrence following endoscopic excision increased as the follow-up period increased, especially in patients whose GHPs were large-sized, multiple, or characterized by surface exudates/lobulations.

Sporadic hyperplastic polyp associated with above-average risk of developing metachronous colorectal cancer

Post-colonoscopy surveillance interval for colorectal polyps depends on the size, number, and pathological classification of removed polyps. The risk of sporadic hyperplastic polyps (HPs) for developing colorectal adenocarcinoma remains debatable due to limited data. We aimed to evaluate the risk of metachronous colorectal cancer (CRC) in patients with sporadic HPs. A total of 249 patients with historical HP(s) diagnosed in 2003 were included as the disease group, and 393 patients without any polyp as the control group. All historical HPs were reclassified into SSA or true HP based on the recent 2010 and 2019 World Health Organization (WHO) criteria. Polyp size was measured under light microscope. Patients developed CRC were identified from the Tumor Registry database. Each tumor was tested for DNA mismatch repair proteins (MMR) by immunohistochemistry. Results showed that 21 (8%) and 48 (19%) historical HPs were reclassified as SSAs based on the 2010 and 2019 WHO criteria, respectively. The mean polyp size of SSAs (6.7 mm) was significantly larger than HPs (3.3 mm) (P<0.0001). For polyp size ≥5 mm, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) for diagnosing SSA was 90%, 90%, 46%, and 99%, respectively. Left-sided polyps with size <5 mm were 100% of HPs. Five of 249 (2%) patients developed metachronous CRC during the 14-year follow-up from 2003 to 2017, including 2 of 21 (9.5%) patients with SSA diagnosed at intervals of 2.5 and 7 years, and 3 of 228 (1.3%) patients with HP(s) at 7, 10.3, and 11.9 years. Two of 5 cancers showed MMR deficiency with concurrent loss of MLH1/PMS2. Based on the 2019 WHO criteria, the rate of developing metachronous CRC in patients with SSA (P=0.0116) and HP (P=0.0384) was significantly higher than the control group, and no significant difference was observed between patients with SSA and with HP (P=0.241) in this cohort. Patients with either SSA or HP also had higher risk of CRC than average-risk US population (P=0.0002 and 0.0001, respectively). Our data add a new line of evidence that patients with sporadic HP are associated with above-average risk of developing metachronous CRC. Post-polypectomy surveillance for sporadic HP may be adjusted in future practice given the low but increased risk of developing CRC.

Image-enhanced endoscopy for real-time differentiation between hyperplastic and fundic gland polyps in the stomach

BACKGROUND

Fundic gland polyps (FGP) of stomach are benign, while some hyperplastic polyps (HP) may harbor dysplasia or malignancy. Conventional white light endoscopy (WLE) cannot reliably distinguish FGP from HP. We investigated the role of image-enhanced endoscopy in differentiating FGP from HP.

METHODS

Patients with gastric polyps were recruited prospectively. The characteristics of the polyps were assessed using WLE and magnification narrow band imaging (mNBI). The microsurface, intervening space (IS), and microvascular (V) features of polyps were evaluated on mNBI. The pattern characteristic of FGP and HP were determined. Histopathology of polyps was the gold standard for diagnosis. Finally, in the validation phase, five endoscopists applied the characteristic features identified in this study to predict the type of gastric polyp and their performance was assessed.

RESULTS

Forty-five patients with a total of 70 gastric polyps (HP-46, FGP-24) were included in this study. On mNBI, the pattern characteristic of HP included peripheral curved type of white structures forming large circular/villous loops (microsurface), enlarged intervening space, and microvessels appearing as dark patches in the intervening space (p<0.001 vs. FGP). These were noted in 95.7% HP. In contrast, 95.8% FGP had a pattern characterized by dotted/elliptical/tubular white structures (microsurface), normal width of intervening space, and microvessels surrounding the white structures in a network pattern. This IS-V pattern classification had an accuracy of >90% in the validation phase with intra-class correlation coefficient of 0.95. The accuracy of mNBI was higher than WLE (97.1% vs. 67%) in predicting the type of gastric polyp.

CONCLUSIONS

Image-enhanced endoscopy with mNBI (IS-V pattern) performs very well in differentiating HP from FGP.

Trends of Colonic Neoplasia in US Outpatient Endoscopy Centers

BACKGROUND

A variety of studies have shown rising trends in the occurrence of colorectal cancer in younger patients as opposed to falling trends among older patients aged 55 years or more. We hypothesized that the time trends of benign colonic precursor lesions would reveal similar patterns.

AIMS

The present study was designed to test this hypothesis in a large nationwide sample of the US population undergoing colonoscopy in community-based endoscopy centers.

METHODS

The Inform Diagnostics database is an electronic repository of histopathologic records of patients distributed throughout the USA. A cross-sectional study analyzed the detection rates of sessile serrated adenomas (SSA), hyperplastic polyps (HP), tubular adenomas (TA), traditional serrated adenomas (TSA), or adenocarcinomas (colorectal cancer, CRC) in 2,910,174 colonoscopies done 2008-2020.

RESULTS

During the 13-year time period, the rate of SSA showed a significant rise, both in patients younger and older than 55 years. HP and TA both showed a significant decline during the same time period. The trends of CRC in the older age group decreased significantly between 2008 (or its peak in 2012) and 2020. The trends of CRC in the younger age group increased significantly between 2008 and its peak in 2017.

CONCLUSIONS

The age-specific time trends of benign and malignant colonic neoplasia are characterized by dissimilar temporal patterns. Such dissimilarity could suggest that besides a set of shared risk factors that affect all types of colonic neoplasia alike, there is yet another set of environmental risk factors that specifically influence malignant transformation.

Proton Pump Inhibitor-Associated Large Hyperplastic Polyp in Non-Helicobacter pylori-Infected Stomach

A proton pump inhibitor (PPI)-associated hyperplastic polyp (HP) in the non-Helicobacter pylori-infected stomach is rare, and its endoscopic features remain poorly described. A 42-year-old man with tarry stool was referred to our hospital for examination and treatment. He had taken PPI for 14 years and was confirmed to be H. pylori-negative. Transnasal endoscopy revealed bleeding from a 20-mm, reddish pedunculated polyp with a nodular surface, located in the greater curvature of the upper gastric body. Endoscopic mucosal resection was performed, and the lesion was diagnosed as an HP. To our knowledge, this report represents a valuable addition to the HP literature describing a rare case of PPI-associated large HP in the non-H. pylori-infected stomach.

Changes of Gastric Juice Microenvironment in Patients with Fundic Gland Polyp and Hyperplastic Polyp

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to study the relationship between the formation of gastric fundic gland polyp and gastric hyperplastic polyp (HP) and the changes of gastric juice microenvironment.

METHODS

The proton-pump inhibitor (PPI) applications to patients were recorded. Gastric juices and biopsy polyps were collected for pathological examination, H. pylori tests, biomarkers, and MUC1, MUC2, MUC5AC expression measurement.

RESULTS

Among 34,892 patients, the detection rate of gastric fundic gland polyps was significantly higher than that of gastric HPs (p < 0.01). The incidence rate of gastric fundic gland polyp and gastric HP in PPI users (n = 3,886) was higher than that of non-PPI users (p < 0.01). The occurrence of polyp was positively related to the duration of PPI application and the H. pylori-positive rate. The bile reflux rate between fundic gland polys group (17.61%) and HPs (28.67%) was significantly different (p < 0.01). The levels of gastric juice Gastrin-17, epidermal growth factor (EGF) and MUC2 from patients with gastric fundic gland polyps and gastric HPs were higher than those in the control group (p < 0.01). However, patients with gastric fundic gland polyps and HPs had significantly lower gastric juice PGE2 and MUC5AC (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

PPI application, H. pylori infection, and bile reflux are the potential risk factors for formation of fundic gland polyps and HPs. The potential mechanism of polyps' formation can be related to the levels of Gastrin-17, EGF, MUC2, PGE2, and MUC5AC in gastric juice.

A rare case of duodenal-type follicular lymphoma in rectum appearing as hyperplastic polyp with metachronous appearance in duodenum and stomach

Hyperplastic polyps consist a very frequent finding in colonoscopy having a very low potential to malignancy. According to the international guidelines, it is recommended that all polyps should be resected except for diminutive (≤ 5 mm) rectal and rectosigmoid polyps which are predicted with confidence to be hyperplastic. Therefore, in departments where optical diagnosis can be ensured, a "resect and discard" strategy may be implemented for diminutive polyps. In our case, a duodenal-type follicular lymphoma was detected in a 5 mm rectum polyp with hyperplastic appearance. After 4 months, the lymphoma was detected also in stomach and duodenum. Under therapy with Rituximab, she is in remission. To our knowledge, there has never been reported such a case in the literature. Furthermore, it alerts us that we should be very cautious with the optical diagnosis and the "resect and discard strategy".

Endoscopic diagnosis for colorectal sessile serrated lesions

BACKGROUND

Hyperplastic polyps are considered non-neoplastic, whereas sessile serrated lesions (SSLs) are precursors of cancer via the ‘‘serrated neoplastic pathway’’. The clinical features of SSLs are tumor size (> 5 mm), location in the proximal colon, coverage with abundant mucus called the ‘‘mucus cap’’, indistinct borders, and a cloud-like surface. The features in magnifying narrow-band imaging are varicose microvascular vessels and expanded crypt openings. However, accurate diagnosis is often difficult.

AIM

To develop a diagnostic score system for SSLs.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed consecutive patients who underwent endoscopic resection during colonoscopy at the Toyoshima endoscopy clinic. We collected data on serrated polyps diagnosed by endoscopic or pathological examination. The significant factors for the diagnosis of SSLs were assessed using logistic regression analysis. Each item that was significant in multivariate analysis was assigned 1 point, with the sum of these points defined as the endoscopic SSL diagnosis score. The optimal cut-off value of the endoscopic SSL diagnosis score was determined by receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis.

RESULTS

Among 1288 polyps that were endoscopically removed, we analyzed 232 diagnosed as serrated polyps by endoscopic or pathological examination. In the univariate analysis, the location (proximal colon), size (> 5 mm), mucus cap, indistinct borders, cloud-like surface, and varicose microvascular vessels were significantly associated with the diagnosis of SSLs. In the multivariate analysis, size (> 5 mm; P = 0.033), mucus cap (P = 0.005), and indistinct borders (P = 0.033) were independently associated with the diagnosis of SSLs. Size > 5 mm, mucus cap, and indistinct borders were assigned 1 point each and the sum of these points was defined as the endoscopic SSL diagnosis score. The receiver-operating characteristic curve analysis showed an optimal cut-off score of 3, which predicted pathological SSLs with 75% sensitivity, 80% specificity, and 78.4% accuracy. The pathological SSL rate for an endoscopic SSL diagnosis score of 3 was significantly higher than that for an endoscopic SSL diagnosis score of 0, 1, or 2 (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Size > 5 mm, mucus cap, and indistinct borders were significant endoscopic features for the diagnosis of SSLs. Serrated polyps with these three features should be removed during colonoscopy.

Targeted next-generation sequencing supports serrated epithelial change as an early precursor to inflammatory bowel disease-associated colorectal neoplasia

Serrated epithelial change (SEC) manifests in patients with long-standing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and is characterized by disorganized crypt architecture, irregular serrations, and goblet cell-rich epithelium. The serrated nature of SEC is reminiscent of serrated colorectal polyps, which frequently harbor KRAS/BRAF mutations. SEC is, however, not only histologically distinct from sporadic serrated polyps but also associated with colorectal neoplasia. Whether SEC is a precursor to IBD-associated neoplasia remains unclear. To further define the relationship of SEC with serrated colorectal polyps and IBD-associated neoplasia, we performed targeted next-generation sequencing on colorectal specimens to include the following: SEC without dysplasia/neoplasia (n = 10), SEC with separate foci of associated dysplasia/adenocarcinoma from the same patients (n = 17), and uninvolved mucosa (n = 10) from 14 patients. In addition, we molecularly profiled sessile serrated lesion (SSL)-like or serrated lesion, not otherwise specified (SL-NOS), specimens, from 11 patients who also had IBD. This control cohort included SSL-like/SL-NOS without dysplasia/neoplasia (n = 11), SSL-like/SL-NOS with associated low-grade dysplasia (n = 2), and uninvolved mucosa (n = 8). By next-generation sequencing, the most frequently mutated gene in SEC without neoplasia and associated dysplasia/adenocarcinoma from separate foci in the same patients was TP53. Recurrent TP53 mutations were present in 50% of SEC specimens without dysplasia/neoplasia. In addition, alterations in TP53 were detected at a prevalence of 71% in low-grade dysplasia, 83% in high-grade dysplasia, and 100% in adenocarcinoma. Paired sequencing of SEC and associated neoplasia revealed identical TP53 missense mutations for 3 patients. In contrast, 91% of SSL-like/SL-NOS specimens without dysplasia/neoplasia harbored KRAS/BRAF mutations, which were conserved in associated low-grade dysplasia. No genomic alterations were found in uninvolved mucosa from either patients with SEC or patients with SSL-like/SL-NOS. Based on our findings, we conclude SEC is distinct from SSL-like serrated colorectal lesions in patients with IBD and an early precursor to IBD-associated neoplasia that warrants colonoscopic surveillance.

An "expressionistic" look at serrated precancerous colorectal lesions

Background

Approximately 60% of colorectal cancer (CRC) precursor lesions are the genuinely-dysplastic conventional adenomas (cADNs). The others include hyperplastic polyps (HPs), sessile serrated lesions (SSL), and traditional serrated adenomas (TSAs), subtypes of a class of lesions collectively referred to as “serrated.” Endoscopic and histologic differentiation between cADNs and serrated lesions, and between serrated lesion subtypes can be difficult.

Methods

We used in situ hybridization to verify the expression patterns in CRC precursors of 21 RNA molecules that appear to be promising differentiation markers on the basis of previous RNA sequencing studies.

Results

SSLs could be clearly differentiated from cADNs by the expression patterns of 9 of the 12 RNAs tested for this purpose (VSIG1, ANXA10, ACHE, SEMG1, AQP5, LINC00520, ZIC5/2, FOXD1, NKD1). Expression patterns of all 9 in HPs were similar to those in SSLs. Nine putatively HP-specific RNAs were also investigated, but none could be confirmed as such: most (e.g., HOXD13 and HOXB13), proved instead to be markers of the normal mucosa in the distal colon and rectum, where most HPs arise. TSAs displayed mixed staining patterns reflecting the presence of serrated and dysplastic glands in the same lesion.

Conclusions

Using a robust in situ hybridization protocol, we identified promising tissue-staining markers that, if validated in larger series of lesions, could facilitate more precise histologic classification of CRC precursors and, consequently, more tailored clinical follow-up of their carriers. Our findings should also fuel functional studies on the pathogenic significance of specific gene expression alterations in the initiation and evolution of CRC precursor subtypes.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13000-020-01064-1.

Hyperplastic polyp or sessile serrated lesion? The contribution of serial sections to reclassification

BACKGROUND

The histological discrimination of hyperplastic polyps from sessile serrated lesions can be difficult. Sessile serrated lesions and hyperplastic polyps are types of serrated polyps which confer different malignancy risks, and surveillance intervals, and are sometimes difficult to discriminate. Our aim was to reclassify previously diagnosed hyperplastic polyps as sessile serrated lesions or confirmed hyperplastic polyps, using additional serial sections.

METHODS

Clinicopathological data for all colorectal hyperplastic polyps diagnosed in 2016 and 2017 was collected. The slides were reviewed and classified as hyperplastic polyps, sessile serrated lesion, or other, using current World Health Organization criteria. Eight additional serial sections were performed for the confirmed hyperplastic polyp group and reviewed.

RESULTS

Of an initial 147 hyperplastic polyps from 93 patients, 9 (6.1%) were classified as sessile serrated lesions, 103 as hyperplastic polyps, and 35 as other. Of the 103 confirmed hyperplastic polyps, 7 (6.8%) were proximal, and 8 (7.8%) had a largest fragment size of ≥5 mm and < 10 mm. After 8 additional serial sections, 11 (10.7%) were reclassified as sessile serrated lesions. They were all less than 5 mm and represented 14.3% of proximal polyps and 10.4% of distal polyps. An average of 3.6 serial sections were required for a change in diagnosis.

CONCLUSION

Histopathological distinction between hyperplastic polyps and sessile serrated lesions remains a challenge. This study has uncovered a potential role for the use of additional serial sections in the morphological reappraisal of small hyperplastic polyps, especially when proximally located.

Serrated polyps of the colon and rectum: Remove or not?

In recent years, the serrated neoplasia pathway where serrated polyps arise as a colorectal cancer has gained considerable attention as a new carcinogenic pathway. Colorectal serrated polyps are histopathologically classified into hyperplastic polyps (HPs), sessile serrated lesions, and traditional serrated adenomas; in the serrated neoplasia pathway, the latter two are considered to be premalignant. In western countries, all colorectal polyps, including serrated polyps, apart from diminutive rectosigmoid HPs are removed. However, in Asian countries, the treatment strategy for colorectal serrated polyps has remained unestablished. Therefore, in this review, we described the clinicopathological features of colorectal serrated polyps and proposed to remove HPs and sessile serrated lesions ≥ 6 mm in size, and traditional serrated adenomas of any size.

Validation of serrated polyps (SPs) in Swedish pathology registers

Background

Little is known about the natural history of serrated polyps (SPs), partly due to the lack of large-scale epidemiologic data. In this study, we examined the validity of SP identification according to SNOMED (Systematised Nomenclature of Medicine) codes and free text from colorectal histopathology reports.

Methods

Through the ESPRESSO (Epidemiology Strengthened by histoPathology Reports in Sweden) study, we retrieved data on SPs from all pathology departments in Sweden in 2015–2017 by using SNOMED codes and free-text search in colorectal histopathology reports. Randomly selected individuals with a histopathology report of SPs were validated against patient charts using a structured, retrospective review.

Results

SPs were confirmed in 101/106 individuals with a histopathology report of SPs, yielding a positive predictive value (PPV) of 95% (95%CI = 89–98%). By year of diagnosis, the PPV was 89% (95%CI = 69–97%), 96% (95%CI = 81–99%) and 97% (95%CI = 89–99%) for individuals diagnosed before 2001 (n = 19), between 2001 and 2010 (n = 26) and after 2010 (n = 61), respectively. According to search method, the PPV for individuals identified by SNOMED codes was 100% (95%CI = 93–100%), and 93% (95%CI = 86–97%) using free-text search. Recorded location (colon vs. rectum) was correct in 94% of all SP histopathology reports (95%CI = 84–98%) identified by SNOMED codes. Individuals with SPs were classified into hyperplastic polyps (n = 34; 32%), traditional serrated adenomas (n = 3; 3%), sessile serrated adenomas/polyps (SSA/Ps) (n = 70; 66%), unspecified SPs (n = 3, 3%), and false positive SPs (n = 5, 5%). For individuals identified by SNOMED codes, SSA/Ps were confirmed in 49/52 individuals, resulting in a PPV of 94% (95%CI: 84–98%). In total, 57% had ≥2 polyps (1: n = 44, 2–3: n = 33 and ≥ 4: n = 27). Some 46% of SPs (n = 71) originated from the proximal colon and 24% were ≥ 10 mm in size (n = 37). Heredity for colorectal cancer, intestinal polyposis syndromes, or both was reported in seven individuals (7%). Common comorbidities included diverticulosis (n = 45, 42%), colorectal cancer (n = 19, 18%), and inflammatory bowel disease (n = 10, 9%).

Conclusion

Colorectal histopathology reports are a reliable data source to identify individuals with SPs.

Colorectal Serrated Polyp With Stromal Changes: An Interobserver Agreement Study

Background

Prolapse-related changes have been shown to be a confounding factor leading to misdiagnosis of serrated polyps in the rectum. Recent data on perineurial-like stromal proliferation in some sessile serrated polyps (SSPs) also highlights this issue.

Methods

Fifty-four consecutive serrated polyps with stromal changes from 42 patients were collected by one pathologist during a 2-month period (July and August of 2014). In addition, 20 cases of serrated polyps with perineurial-like stromal proliferation from 20 patients were retrieved from our pathology database from 2003 to 2010. The polyps were re-reviewed by three gastrointestinal pathologists for stromal changes, basal crypt distortion, and final classification into hyperplastic polyp (HP) or SSP. Final interpretation was correlated to clinicopathologic features and the presence of synchronous SSP and adenoma. In addition, the interobserver agreement on the stromal changes and basal crypt distortion in these polyps was determined.

Results

Upon histology review, all polyps showed stromal changes evident by at least one pathologist. Among the 74 polyps evaluated, a consensus diagnosis of HP and consensus diagnosis of SSP were reached in 39 and 11 polyps respectively. The overall interobserver agreement among three pathologists was moderate (kappa value 0.49, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.32 - 0.66). A consensus diagnosis could not be reached in the remaining 24 polyps (32.4%). The SSPs were larger, were more often located in the right colon, and occurred more frequently in women when compared to HPs (7.3 ± 5.3 vs. 4.5 ± 2.7 mm, P = 0.019; 72.7% vs. 7.7%, P = 0.000014; and 77.7% vs. 30.7%, P = 0.019) but with comparable patient age (54.7 ± 10.6 years vs. 60.7 ± 11.4, P = 0.12). The SSPs were associated with higher risk of concurrent SSP in other parts of the colon (27.3% vs. 0%, P = 0.008) but not with the presence of concurrent adenoma (45.4% vs. 69.6%, P = 1). Among the 24 unclassifiable serrated polyps, 11 were interpreted by two reviewers as SSP and 13 interpreted by two reviewers as HP; the former group were more likely right-sided (45.4% vs. 15.4%, P = 0.046), but size of the polyps and age of the patients were comparable. Stromal changes (prolapse and perineurial-like) were agreed upon by all three pathologists in 33 (44.6%, of 74) polyps and these included 15 with prolapse changes and 18 perineurial-like stromal changes. Among those 15 with prolapse changes, 14 (93.3%) were agreed upon by three pathologists to be HP; in contrast, only four (22.2%, of 18) with perineurial-like stromal changes were diagnosed as HP by all three pathologists (P = 0.00008). Of 74 polyps, 16 were found to have basal crypt distortion involving more than one crypt and eight of them (50%) carried a final interpretation of SSP by all three pathologists and two (12.5%) HP.

Conclusions

Even though serrated polyps with stromal changes can be challenging, up to 67.7% of them could be readily classified as SSP or HP. The remaining unclassifiable serrated polyps with stromal changes may represent a heterogeneous group. Prolapse changes support the diagnosis of HP while basal crypt distortion in more than one crypt supports the diagnosis of SSP.

[Comparison of endoscopic features between colorectal sessile serrated adenoma/polyp with or without cytologic dysplasia and hyperplastic polyp]

Objective: To investigate the morphological features of colorectal sessile serrated adenoma/polyp (SSA/P) and hyperplastic polyp (HP) by white light endoscope (WLE) and Image enhancement endoscope (IEE) . Methods: The data of 7 384 patients who underwent colonoscopy at the Center of Digestive Endoscopy, Peking University International Hospital from August 1, 2016 to February 29, 2018 were analyzed retrospectively. WLE and IEE[Fuji intelligent chromo endoscopy (FICE) or Blue Laser Imaging (BLI) ]were used to compare the morphological features of SSA/P with HP, SSA/P-CD(+)with SSA/P-CD(-). The diagnostic values of endoscopic features in SSA/P and SSA/P-CD(+)were analyzed. Results: A total of 3 401 polyps were detected in 7 384 patients, including 164 SSA/Ps (135 patients). During the same period, there were 270 HPs (223 patients) in accordance with the admission criteria. Compared with HP group, SSA/P group was more common in the right colon with a diameter>5 mm and more likely to be manifested as: Ⅱ-O pit pattern, surface mucus, cumulus-like surface, irregular morphology, VMV, redness, and also more likely to be associated with colon adenoma, colon cancer elsewhere in the colorectum. The differences were statistically significant (P<0.01). Compared with SSA/P-CD(-)group, SSA/P-CD(+)group was more common in the right colon with a diameter>5 mm and more likely to be manifested as: Ⅱ-O pit pattern, surface mucus, cumulus-like surface, irregular morphology, VMV. The differences were statistically significant (P<0.001). The differential diagnosis between SSA/P and HP was predicted by combining any two endoscopic morphological features (right colon, Ⅱ-O pit pattern, surface mucus, cumulus surface, irregular morphology, VMV, diameter>5 mm, at least 2 of 7 endoscopic features). The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive likelihood ratio and negative likelihood ratio were 59.15%, 95.56%, 81.80%, 13.32 and 0.43, respectively. Similarly, the differential diagnosis between SSA/P-CD(+) and HP was predicted. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive likelihood ratio and negative likelihood ratio were 92.16%, 95.56%, 95.02%, 20.76 and 0.08, respectively. Conclusion: Comprehensive analysis of the WLE and FICE/BLI morphological features of the lesions can effectively distinguish SSA/P from HP, especially SSA/P-CD(+) from HP.

Gastrointestinal juvenile-like (inflammatory/hyperplastic) mucosal polyps in neurofibromatosis type 1 with no concurrent genetic or clinical evidence of other syndromes

Gastrointestinal "juvenile-like (inflammatory/hyperplastic) mucosal polyps" (JLIHMPs) have been proposed as a neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1)-specific gastrointestinal manifestation. Juvenile polyposis syndrome (JPS) has also been reported in a NF1 patient, harboring concurrent NF1 and SMAD4 germline mutations. Additionally, NF1-like cafe-au-lait spots have been described in biallelic mismatch repair deficiency, another condition featuring gastrointestinal polyps. The SMAD4 and BMPR1A genes that are involved in 50-60% of JPS cases have not been investigated in the ~ 20 published cases of NF1-associated JLIHMPs with the exception of the abovementioned patient with concomitant JPS and NF1. NF1 defects have been found in the only two cases exhaustively tested. Therefore, JLIHMP has been questioned as an independent, NF1-specific entity. Incidental associations between NF1 and gastrointestinal polyposes at risk for gastrointestinal carcinoma should not be overlooked, given their implications in terms of clinical surveillance. We describe two patients featuring JLIHMPs in clinically/genetically proven NF1, in the absence of SMAD4 and BMPR1A mutations. In one case, the intervening mucosa was markedly inflamed, unlike JPS. We suggest that JLIHMP probably represents a gastrointestinal lesion specific to NF1.

Changing Trends in Gastric Polyps

Background

The prevalence of gastric polyps varies around the world reflecting regional associations. We describe demographic features of patients with gastric polyp diagnosis treated between 1980 and 2016 at a referral center in Mexico City and analyzed trends of polyp subtype.

Materials and Methods

We conducted a blind review of archival slides of gastric biopsies with polyp diagnosis from the years 1980, 1990, 2000, 2010, and 2016. Initial diagnosis; patient's gender, age and symptoms; and number and location of lesions were recorded. Blind slide review and trend analysis were performed.

Results

In 3887 gastric biopsies, 192 patients (4.93%) with epithelial polyps were identified. The median age of patients was 58 years; 73% were female. Polyps were single in 143/192 cases (74.4%), almost 67% in the oxyntic mucosa, and 85% were associated with dyspepsia. The prevalence was 0.5%, 1.6%, 1.9%, 4.6%, and 9.6% for the years 1980, 1990, 2000, 2010, and 2016, respectively, resulting in a rising trend in the prevalence of epithelial polyps of 380% in 46 years. Fundic gland polyps (FGPs) had a global frequency of 66.6% (128/192). They were identified for the first time in the third period of the study, with a frequency of 28.6% (6/21), 66.6% (35/53), and 78.3% (87/111) for the years 2000, 2010, and 2016, respectively. Contrary, hyperplastic polyps (HPs) decreased 20%. A relative prevalence of 3.29%, 0.97%, and 0.15% was observed for FGP, HP, and gastric adenoma, respectively.

Discussion

The 1400% change of FGP explains the increased prevalence of gastric polyps. Chronic treatment with proton pump inhibitors and Helicobacter pylori eradication are possible explanations.

Serrated neoplasia pathway as an alternative route of colorectal cancer carcinogenesis

In the past two decades, besides conventional adenoma pathway, a subset of colonic lesions, including hyperplastic polyps, sessile serrated adenoma/polyps, and traditional serrated adenomas have been suggested as precancerous lesions via the alternative serrated neoplasia pathway. Major molecular alterations of sessile serrated neoplasia include BRAF mutation, high CpG island methylator phenotype, and escape of cellular senescence and progression via methylation of tumor suppressor genes or mismatch repair genes. With increasing information of the morphologic and molecular features of serrated lesions, one major challenge is how to reflect this knowledge in clinical practice, such as pathologic and endoscopic diagnosis, and guidelines for treatment and surveillance.

Vimentin-positive gastric adenocarcinoma arising in a hyperplastic polyp

We report a case of vimentin-positive early gastric adenocarcinoma arising in a hyperplastic polyp (HP). A 72-year-old Japanese man was admitted for the detailed examination of a gastric polyp. He had a subtotal gastrectomy due to acute abdomen 12 years ago. Upper endoscopy revealed a pedunculated polyp measuring approximately 2 cm on the greater curvature of upper body of the remnant stomach. Magnifying endoscopy revealed that the microsurface pattern was irregular and partially absent accompanied with irregular microvessels at the upper end of the polyp. We speculated that the lesion was an adenocarcinoma arising in the HP. Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) was performed. Histological examination of the ESD specimen revealed that the lesion consisted of well- to poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma at the protruding lesion and foveolar hyperplastic epithelia at the base of the polyp. Immunohistochemically, most of tumor cells that comprised poorly-differentiated adenocarcinoma were positive for both cytokeratin and vimentin. Although carcinomas have occasionally been found in HPs, the histological features of the present case are considered extremely unusual. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case of vimentin-positive early gastric carcinoma arising in a HP.

Postprandial cardiogenic syncope caused by gastric polyp-induced pyloric obstruction in an elderly woman with a giant hiatal hernia: a case report

Background

Hiatal hernias are common. In some reports, hiatal hernias have been implicated in causing dyspnea, syncope, and heart failure.

Case presentation

An 82-year-old woman with a hiatal hernia was admitted to our hospital because she had experienced postprandial syncope during the last few years. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed a large hiatal hernia and a pedunculated polyp of the stomach antrum that fit into the pylorus. An upper gastrointestinal contrast study showed that the entire stomach had relocated to the thoracic cavity and that the body of the stomach was located above the fundus, resulting in a so-called upside-down stomach. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed that a large portion of the stomach, transverse colon, and part of the pancreas were present in the mediastinum. We then performed transthoracic echocardiography followed by a water pouring test using a nasogastric tube. After instillation of 2000 ml of saline, the left atrium was markedly compressed and the area of the mitral annulus was reduced. We determined that stomach dilation by the hiatal hernia and gastric polyp had caused the syncope. The patient underwent laparoscopic hiatal hernia repair and endoscopic gastric polypectomy, and she experienced no syncopal episodes for 5 months postoperatively.

Conclusions

Clinicians should recognize that a large hiatal hernia may be a risk factor for syncope.

Gastric outlet obstruction secondary to a pedunculated hyperplastic polyp with early malignant changes

Hyperplastic polyps are the most common polypoidal lesions of the stomach showing a varied presentation. They may be asymptomatic; however, occasionally they can cause anaemia and gastric outlet obstruction. Malignant transformation is a serious complication associated with such polyps. We present the case of an elderly woman who complained of epigastric pain and intermittent vomiting. Oesophagogastroduodenoscopy (OGDS) showed a large pedunculated polyp along the lesser curvature of the stomach, 4 cm from the gastro-oesophageal junction, extending into the first part of the duodenum that caused gastric outlet obstruction. Computed tomography reported a soft-tissue mass arising from the incisura and extending through the pylorus into the duodenum (D1 and proximal D2). An endoscopic polypectomy was performed, and histopathological examination reported evidence of early gastric carcinoma. She underwent regular endoscopic follow-up with biopsies performed over 2 years, and the last follow-up showed mild-to-moderate dysplasia at the previous excision site. She underwent a planned laparoscopic wedge resection, and histopathological examination confirmed the presence of a hyperplastic polyp showing low-grade dysplasia.

Evaluating the frequency of MLH-1 Loss in serrated polyps of colon: a single center study from Southern Iran

AIM

Evaluation of the role of MLH-1 loss in serrated polyps of colon in a population of South of Iran.

BACKGROUND

There has been extensive change in classification and pathogenesis of serrated polyps of the colon during the last 10 years. The new classification is mostly based on the knowledge of the molecular pathogenesis and the rate of progression to colorectal cancer in these types of polyps. One of the most common and early lesions in molecular pathogenesis of serrated colorectal cancer is loss of MLH-1.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this study over 2 years (2012-13), 78 cases of colorectal polyps with serrated morphology resected in hospitals affiliated with Shiraz University of Medical Sciences were reclassified and investigated for MLH-1 loss by immunohistochemical method.

RESULTS

Out of the 78 colorectal polyps, 64 were classified as hyperplastic polyp (HP) and 14 as sessile serrated adenoma/polyp (SSA/P). There was no case of traditional serrated adenoma. Three cases of SSA/P located in right colon showed dysplasia. MLH-1 loss was detected only in these 3 cases. No case of HP or SSA/P without dysplasia showed MLH-1 loss.

CONCLUSION

SSA/P is not a common serrated polyp in our population, i.e. it is much less common than HP. Although MLH-1 loss in serrated polyps of colon is overall rare, it is fairly common in dysplastic right sided SSA/P, which confirms this molecular change as an early event in serrated carcinogenesis.

Mucins and associated glycan signatures in colon adenoma-carcinoma sequence: Prospective pathological implication(s) for early diagnosis of colon cancer

Development of biomarkers that detect early stage resectable premalignant lesions of colon can provide critical aid in the prevention of colorectal cancer. Recent lines of evidence suggest the utility of mucin expression to predict malignant transformation of colon pre-neoplastic lesions. In this study, we investigated the combined expression of multiple mucins and mucin-associated glycans during the adenoma-carcinoma sequence of colon cancer progression. Further, we evaluated their applicability as markers for differentiating adenomas/adenocarcinomas from hyperplastic polyps. Immunohistochemical analyses performed on colon disease tissue microarrays revealed downregulation of MUC2 and MUC4 expression (p < 0.0001) while MUC1 and MUC5AC expressions were upregulated (p = 0.01) during adenoma-adenocarcinoma progression. Expression of MUC17 was downregulated in inflamed tissues compared to normal tissues, but its increased expression differentiated adenomas (p = 0.0028) and adenocarcinomas (p = 0.025) from inflammation. Glycan epitope-Tn/STn on MUC1 showed higher expression in hyperplastic polyps (p = 0.023), adenomas (p = 0.042) and adenocarcinomas (p = 0.0096) compared to normal tissues. Multivariate regression analyses indicated that a combination of MUC2, MUC5AC, and MUC17 could effectively discriminate adenoma-adenocarcinoma from hyperplastic polyps. Altogether, a combined analysis of altered mucins and mucin-associated glycans is a useful approach to distinguish premalignant/malignant lesions of colon from benign polyps.

The frequency of early colorectal cancer derived from sessile serrated adenoma/polyps among 1858 serrated polyps from a single institution

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Sessile serrated adenoma/polyps (SSAPs) are suspected to have a high malignant potential, although few reports have evaluated the incidence of carcinomas derived from SSAPs using the new classification for serrated polyps (SPs). The aim of study was to compare the frequency of cancer coexisting with the various SP subtypes including mixed polyps (MIXs) and conventional adenomas (CADs).

METHODS

A total of 18,667 CADs were identified between April 2005 and December 2011, and 1858 SPs (re-classified as SSAP, hyperplastic polyp (HP), traditional serrated adenoma (TSA), or MIX) were removed via snare polypectomy, endoscopic mucosal resection, or endoscopic sub-mucosal dissection.

RESULTS

Among 1160 HP lesions, 1 (0.1%) coexisting sub-mucosal invasive carcinoma (T1) was detected. Among 430 SSAP lesions, 3 (0.7%) high-grade dysplasia (HGD/Tis) and 1 (0.2%) T1 were detected. All of the lesions were detected in the proximal colon, with a mean tumor diameter of 18 mm (SD 9 mm). Among 212 TSA lesions, 3 (1%) HGD/Tis were detected but no T1 cancer. Among 56 MIX lesions, 9 (16%) HGD/Tis and 1 (2%) T1 cancers were detected, and among 18,677 CAD lesions, 964 (5%) HGD/Tis and 166 (1%) T1 cancers were identified.

CONCLUSIONS

Among the resected lesions that were detected during endoscopic examination, a smaller proportion (1%) of SSAPs harbored HGD or coexisting cancer, compared to CAD or MIX lesions. Therefore, more attention should be paid to accurately identifying lesions endoscopically for intentional resection and the surveillance of each SP subtype.

Three Colon Adenocarcinomas Arising in a Patient with Serrated Polyposis Syndrome: Case Report and Review of the Literature

Background

Serrated polyposis syndrome (SPS) is a rare entity mainly concerning the 6th decade of life and which is characterized by the presence of multiple large hyperplastic polyps, sessile serrated adenomas, and adenomas within the colon.

Case Report

We describe the case of a SPS patient with 3 synchronous adenocarcinomas. The morphologic features of serrated colorectal lesions, their characteristic molecular alterations, and their role in colorectal cancer development are discussed herein.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that SPS is a rare condition with an increased risk for colon cancer. Patients suffering from SPS should have regular colonoscopic surveillance, and perhaps those with numerous dysplastic hyperplastic polyps should be treated with colectomy.

Gastric polyps: Association with Helicobacter pylori status and the pathology of the surrounding mucosa, a cross sectional study

AIM: To assess the endoscopic characteristics of gastric polyps and their association with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) status in a predominantly Hispanic population.

METHODS: We conducted a retrospective study of all esophagogastroduodenoscopies performed at our institution. Demographic, endoscopic and histopathological data were reviewed. Categorization of patients into Hispanic and Non-Hispanic was based on self-identification. Patients without resection/biopsy were not included in the analysis. Identification of polyps type was based on histological examination. One way analysis of variance was used to compare continuous variables among different polyp types and Fisher’s exact test was used compare categorical variables among polyp types. Unadjusted and adjusted comparisons of demographic and clinical characteristics were performed according to the H. pylori status and polyp type using logistic regressions.

RESULTS: Of 7090 patients who had upper endoscopy, 335 patients had gastric polyps (4.7%). Resection or biopsy of gastric polyps was performed in 296 patients (88.4%) with a total of 442 polyps removed or biopsied. Of 296 patients, 87 (29%) had hyperplastic polyps, 82 (28%) had fundic gland polyps and 5 (1.7%) had adenomatous polyps. Hyperplastic polyps were significantly associated with positive H. pylori status compared with fundic gland polyps (OR = 4.621; 95%CI: 1.92-11.13, P = 0.001). Hyperplastic polyps were also found to be significantly associated with portal hypertensive gastropathy compared with fundic gland polyps (OR = 6.903; 95%CI: 1.41-33.93, P = 0.0174). Out of 296 patients, 30 (10.1%) had a follow-up endoscopy with a mean duration of 26 ± 16.3 mo. Interval development of cancer was not noted in any of the patients during follow up period.

CONCLUSION: Gastric hyperplastic polyps were significantly associated with positive H. pylori status and portal hypertensive gastropathy as compared with fundic gland polyps.

Methods to become a high performer in characterization of colorectal polyp histology

The recent advent of advanced imaging technologies has brought real time characterization of polyp histology to the forefront. This concept of optical diagnosis of diminutive polyp histology can bring about a huge paradigm shift in the management of these lesions. Instead of resecting and sending all the diminutive polyps to pathology, there is the potential to practice "resect and discard" for those predicted to be adenomas and "do not resect" strategy for the recto-sigmoid polyps predicted to be hyperplastic. However, one of the major steps before the clinical implementation of real-time histology can be a reality, will be training endoscopists with varying levels of experience in novel imaging technologies. The two major methods for training include didactic teaching and the computer based method. After the initial training, it is imperative that the endoscopists practice this skill during performance of routine colonoscopy to auto validate and assess their own competency. Both practice and reinforcement can help endoscopists become high performers in the characterization of polyp histology.

Serrated polyps of the colon and rectum: Endoscopic features including image enhanced endoscopy

In this review, I outline the characteristic endoscopic findings of serrated lesions of the colorectum based on image enhanced endoscopy (IEE). Histopathologically, lesions with serrated structures are typically classified into the following three types based: hyperplastic polyps (HPs), traditional serrated adenomas (TSAs), and sessile serrated adenoma/polyps (SSA/Ps). Both HP and SSA/P often present as dark-green colors on auto fluorescence imaging (AFI) colonoscopy that are similar to the normal surrounding mucosa. In contrast, TSAs often have elevated shapes and present as magenta colors that are similar to the tubular adenomas. The superficial type of TSA also includes many lesions that present as magenta colors. When SSA/Ps are associated with cytological dysplasia, many lesions present with magenta colors, whereas lesions that are not associated with cytological dysplasia present with dark-green colors. When observed via narrow band imaging (NBI), many SSA/P include lesions with strong mucous adhesions. Because these lesions are observed with reddish mucous adhesions, we refer to them as “red cap sign” and place such signs among the typical findings of SSA/P. Because the dilatation of the pit in SSA/P is observed as a round/oval black dot on magnified observations, we refer to this finding as II-dilatation pit (II-D pit) and also positioned it as a characteristic finding of SSA/P. In contrast, dilatations of the capillary vessels surrounding the glands, such as those that occur in tubular adenoma, are not considered to be useful for differentiating HPs from SSA/Ps. However, in cases in which SSA/P is associated with cytological dysplasia, the dilatation of capillary vessels is observed in the same area. When submucosal layer invasion occurs in the same area, the blood flow presents with irregularities that are similar to those of common colorectal cancer at an early stage and disappears as the invasion proceeds deeply. The surface pattern of invasive cancer that is observed at the tumor surface is also likely to disappear. Based on the above results, we considered that the differentiations between HP and TSA, between TSA and SSA/P, and between HP and SSA/P might become easier due to the concomitant use of white light observation and IEE. We also concluded that AFI and NBI can be useful modalities for SSA/P lesions associated with cytological dysplasia.

Gastritis cystica profunda in a previously unoperated stomach: A case report

Gastritis cystica profunda is a relatively rare disease, usually observed at anastomotic sites in stomachs of patients that have undergone gastric procedures. We present the rare case of an elevated lesion in the anterior wall of the gastric antrum of a 43-year-old Chinese woman who had never undergone gastric surgery and had no gastrointestinal tract symptoms. Although the physical examination and laboratory data showed no abnormalities, endoscopic ultrasonography revealed an anechoic cystic structure. Abdominal computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging showed the gastric wall of the greater curvature of the antrum was markedly and irregularly thickened, and mild to moderate enhancement was observed around the lesion with no enhancement in the central portion, suggestive of a gastrointestinal stromal tumor. The patient underwent a distal gastric resection of the 2.5 cm × 1.5 cm lesion. A postoperative pathologic examination showed dilated cystic glands in the muscularis mucosa and submucosal layers and erosion of the mucosal surface of the tumor, confirming the diagnosis of gastritis cystica profunda without malignancy.

Endoscopic and histologic characteristics of serrated lesions

In recent years, a second pathway for colonic carcinogenesis, distinct from the adenomatous pathway, has been explored. This is referred to as serrated pathway and includes three types of polyp, characterised by a serrated appearance of the crypts: hyperplastic polyps (HP), sessile serrated adenomas (SSA) or lesions, and traditional serrated adenomas. Each lesion has its own genetic, as well as macroscopic and microscopic morphological features. Because of their flat aspect, their detection is easier with chromoendoscopy (carmin indigo or narrow-band imaging). However, as we show in this review, the distinction between SSA and HP is quite difficult. It is now recommended to resect in one piece as it is possible the serrated polyps with a control in a delay depending on the presence or not of dysplasia. These different types of lesion are described in detail in the present review in general population, in polyposis and in inflammatory bowel diseases patients. This review highlights the need to improve characterization and understanding of this way of colorectal cancerogenesis.

Gastroduodenal Intussusception, Intermittent Biliary Obstruction and Biochemical Pancreatitis due to a Gastric Hyperplastic Polyp

We present the case of a 76-year-old man with gastroduodenal intussusception secondary to a gastric hyperplastic polyp. Intussusception in the adult population occurs infrequently. Our patient presented with gastroduodenal intussusception, which is very uncommon and accounts for <10% of all types of intussusception. This case is unique in that partial endoscopic resection of the gastric hyperplastic polyp resolved the patient's gastroduodenal intussusception, biliary obstruction and biochemical pancreatitis without the need for surgical intervention.

Antral hyperplastic polyp: A rare cause of gastric outlet obstruction. Int J Surg Case Rep. 2014;5:287-289. [PMID: 24747755 PMCID: PMC4066575 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2014.03.016]

INTRODUCTION

Gastric polyps are usually found incidentally during upper gastrointestinal endoscopic examinations. These polyps are generally benign, with hyperplasia being the most common. While gastric polyps are often asymptomatic, they can cause gastric outlet obstruction.

PRESENTATION OF CASE

A 64 years-old female patient presented to our polyclinic with a history of approximately 2 months of weakness, occasional early nausea, vomiting after meals and epigastric pain. A polypoid lesion of approximately 25mm in diameter was detected in the antral area of the stomach, which prolapsed through the pylorus into the duodenal bulbus, and subsequently caused gastric outlet obstruction, as revealed by upper gastrointestinal endoscopy of the patient. The polyp was retrieved from the pyloric canal into the stomach with the aid of a tripod, and snare polypectomy was performed.

DISCUSSION

Currently, widespread use of endoscopy has led to an increase in the frequency of detecting hyperplastic polyps. While most gastric polyps are asymptomatic, they can cause iron deficiency anemia, acute pancreatitis and more commonly, gastric outlet obstruction because of their antral location. Although there are no precise principles in the treatment of asymptomatic polyps, polyps >5mm should be removed due to the possibility of malignant transformation.

CONCLUSION

According to the medical evidence, polypectomy is required for gastric hyperplastic polyps because of the risks of complication and malignancy. These cases can be successfully treated endoscopically.

Successful endoscopic submucosal dissection of a giant polyp in a 21-month-old female

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) is now recognized as the preferred treatment modality for gastrointestinal epithelial lesions. A 21-month-old female was admitted with a giant hyperplastic polyp causing a gastric outlet obstruction. Successful ESD was performed with caution. The post-procedural course was uneventful without a bleeding episode. Although further study of the feasibility of ESD in early children is necessary, ESD could be applied to avoid laparotomy even in young children.

Colonoscopic characteristics of serrated adenomas

AIM: To investigate the morphologic features of serrated adenomas (SA) by regular high-resolution colonoscopy with narrow band imaging (NBI).

METHODS: A retrospective analysis was performed of the imaging data for patients with colorectal SA who underwent colonoscopy between March 2010 and June 2013. A comparison of colonoscopic features was made between SA and hyperplastic polyps (HP) with comparable predicted diameter.

RESULTS: A total of 50 SA from 35 patients and 50 HP from 42 patients were included. More SA were located in the right colon than in the left colon (48% vs 36%, P > 0.05). Type IIa or laterally spreading tumors (LST) were more commonly seen in SA (P = 0.019) and II-O pit pattern was more commonly seen in HP (P = 0.000). SA more frequently showed the features of vague margins, irregular shape, cloud-like surface and dark bleeding spots in crypts (all P < 0.001). The sensitivities of II-O pit pattern, cloud-like surface, indistinct border, irregular shape and dark bleeding spots in the crypts for predicting SA were 44%, 92%, 30%, 66% and 76%, respectively, and the specificities were 98%, 98%, 98%, 94% and 92%, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of the presence of three or more above characteristics for predicting SA were 80% and 100%, respectively.

CONCLUSION: SA have certain colonoscopic features, which can aid in differentiating SA from HP.

Traditional serrated adenoma of the colorectum: clinicopathologic implications and endoscopic findings of the precursor lesions

OBJECTIVES

To investigate the clinicopathologic and endoscopic features of precursor lesions associated with traditional serrated adenomas (TSAs).

METHODS

Mutation studies for BRAF, KRAS, PIK3CA, and EGFR and immunohistochemical staining for Ki-67 were performed on 107 TSAs from 104 patients.

RESULTS

Nondysplastic hyperplastic polyp (HP) or sessile serrated adenoma/polyp (SSA/P) precursor lesions were found in 56 (52.3%) TSAs, among which 32 (57.1%) cases showed a flat-elevated lesion with a type II pit pattern during endoscopy. TSAs with an SSA/P precursor lesion were usually found in the proximal colon, while TSAs with an HP or with no precursor lesion were mainly located in the distal colon and rectum (P < .001). TSAs with a precursor lesion showed a lower frequency of conventional epithelial dysplasia and KRAS mutation as well as a higher frequency of BRAF mutation compared with those with no precursor lesion (P = .002, P < .001, and P < .001, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

A significant proportion of HP or SSA/P precursor lesions accompanied by TSAs can be detected by endoscopy based on both their flat-elevated growth and type II pit patterns. The heterogeneity of TSAs in terms of clinicopathologic and molecular features correlated with the status or type of precursor lesions.

A gastric hyperplastic polyp occurring in the ulcer base: A case report

A 44-year-old male patient suffering from upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage was initially diagnosed with gastric ulcer by gastroscopy. The lesion appeared poor responsive to proton-pump inhibitors; however, a neoplasm gradually formed in the ulcer base. The neoplasm was pathologically confirmed to be a gastric hyperplastic polyp occurring in the ulcer base after surgical resection of the lesion. Clinicians should improve the awareness of similar cases and avoid misdiagnosis.

A significant number of sessile serrated adenomas might not be accurately diagnosed in daily practice

BACKGROUND/AIMS

The diagnosis of hyperplastic polyps (HPs) may involve a conglomeration of subgroups of serrated polyps. The diagnosis of HPs may therefore be revisited if this is sessile serrated adenoma (SSA). The aim of this study was to determine clinically and endoscopically relevant information associated with reclassification to SSA.

METHODS

After reviewing the data from 1,372 patients who underwent colonoscopic polypectomy, 49 HPs larger than 10 mm were analyzed in this study. Two gastrointestinal pathologists reclassified each of the original 49 HPs as conventional HPs, SSAs, and others.

RESULTS

Among the 49 initially diagnosed HPs, 18.4% were reclassified into SSAs or mixed polyps. Overall architectural features were useful for the diagnosis of SSA, but cytological features were less useful. The patient and polyp characteristics did not differ between HPs with and without reclassification of the initial pathological diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

A significant number of SSAs might not be accurately diagnosed in daily clinical practice without any predilection for size, shape, and location. Therefore, when large HPs are diagnosed in clinical practice, it is necessary for physicians to have greater awareness of the diagnosis of SSA and to individualize subsequent surveillance.

Management of serrated adenomas and hyperplastic polyps

The benign serrated architecture of the hyperplastic polyp has now been recognized in morphologically similar lesions with potential for transformation to colorectal carcinoma: the sessile serrated adenoma (SSA), traditional serrated adenoma (TSA), and mixed polyp. These represent a group of serrated polyps with potential to evolve into colorectal cancer through a different molecular pathway than the traditional adenoma-carcinoma sequence, called the serrated pathway. Genetic characteristics involve a defect in apoptosis caused by BRAF and K-ras mutations that create distinct histologic characteristics of atypia in serrated architectural distortion of the crypts. An evidence-based algorithm for the clinical management of this polyp has yet to be determined. Current recommendations suggest these lesions be managed similar to conventional adenomas. The histology of serrated polyps is reviewed, as well as the common characteristics, and implications for treatment and surveillance.

The clinicopathological features of gastric hyperplastic polyps with neoplastic transformations: a suggestion of indication for endoscopic polypectomy

Background/Aims

Although gastric hyperplastic polyps are usually considered as benign lesions, a low risk of carcinomatous conversion is currently recognized. We aimed to identify the characteristics of hyperplastic polyps undergoing neoplastic transformation.

Methods

A total of 269 gastric hyperplastic polyps from 216 patients removed by endoscopic polypectomy (EP) or surgical resection were enrolled in this study, and their endoscopic pictures and pathology slides were reviewed.

Results

Neoplastic transformation was detected on forceps biopsy specimen in 11 cases. However, the pathology findings from the EP or surgical specimen revealed neoplastic transformation in 14 cases (5.2%; 4 with dysplasia and 10 with adenocarcinoma). No significant difference was found between hyperplastic polyps with and without neoplastic transformation in age, sex, location, number of polyps or gross appearance. However, neoplastic transformations were more frequently found in gastric hyperplastic polyps >1 cm than in polyps ≤1 cm (12 of 143; 8.4% vs. 2 of 126; 1.6%) (p=0.013).

Conclusions

Neoplastic transformations were more frequently found in gastric hyperplastic polyps >1 cm. Therefore, EP should be considered for gastric hyperplastic polyps >1 cm for the accurate diagnosis and definitive treatment.

Hyperplastic polyposis associated with two asynchronous colon cancers

We report a patient with hyperplastic polyposis who had two asynchronous colon cancers, a combined adenoma-hyperplastic polyp, a serrated adenoma, and tubular adenomas. Hyperplastic polyposis is thought to be a precancerous lesion; and adenocarcinoma arises from hyperplastic polyposis through the hyperplastic polyp-adenoma-carcinoma sequence. Most polyps in patients with hyperplastic polyposis present as bland-looking hyperplastic polyps, which are regarded as non-neoplastic lesions; however, the risk of malignancy should not be underestimated. In patients with multiple hyperplastic polyps, hyperplastic polyposis should be identified and followed up carefully in order to detect malignant transformation in the early stage.