Abstract
Pediatric colorectal polyps often show various symptoms, depending on their location. In this study, we reviewed the clinical characteristics of colorectal polyps retrospectively.
From 1987 to 2007, 26 children with colorectal polyps were consecutively treated at our institute. There were 20 boys and 6 girls, and their mean age was 4.0 yr (range, 1-13). The most common initial presentation was rectal bleeding in 17 of the children. Prolapse of the polyp from the anus was noted in 6 cases with rectal polyps. Among them, 2 cases were at first misdiagnosed with rectal prolapse. All polyps were solitary lesions and juvenile polyps except 3 polyps, and 20 polyps were observed in the rectosigmoid colon. Transanal excision was performed in 6 cases, and endoscopic polypectomy in 18 cases. Self-amputation was noted in 1 case. One case with a giant polyp in the transverse colon, who presented massive anal bleeding, required open polypectomy.
Routine total colonoscopy is mandatory for children with colorectal polyps because of the possibility of multiple lesions. Additionally, children with rectal prolapse should be investigated to detect colorectal polyps.
