Gastrointestinal Polyps and Polyposis in Children: Experience of Endoscopic and Surgical Outcomes

Abstract

Introduction: There are gaps in the literature regarding outcome of multiple polyps and dilemmas in the management issues in polyposis syndromes in children. Objective: We aimed to study the clinical behaviour of gastrointestinal (GI) polyps with emphasis on therapeutic outcomes of polyposis syndrome. Methods: Proven cases of GI polyp(s) on endoscopy were classified as single polyp, multiple polyps, and polyposis syndrome. Complex presentation was defined as 1 or more of the following: severe anaemia, anasarca, intussusception, rectal mucosal prolapse, and diarrhoea. A clinico-endoscopic criterion was applied in polyposis syndrome patients for the decision of surgery versus endoscopic therapy with surveillance. Results: Of total 240 patients, there were no significant differences between single (52.5%, n = 126) versus multiple polyps (27.5%, n = 66) with respect to age, symptoms, histology, and recurrence. Polyposis syndrome (20%, n = 48) presented with complex symptoms (50%), higher family history, significantly lower haemoglobin, total protein, and albumin as compared to single and multiple polyps (p < 0.01). Nineteen polyposis patients with favourable clinico-endoscopic criteria were endoscopically eradicated for polyps in 3 (1–4) sessions with sustenance of laboratory parameters at 1 year and 30% symptomatic recurrence at follow-up of 23.5 (7–40) months. There were no major endoscopic complications. Nineteen patients required proctocolectomy with improvement in laboratory parameters 6 months post-surgery. Conclusions: Multiple polyps behave similar to single polyps in children. A clinico-endoscopic criterion may guide for optimal management of polyposis syndrome. Colectomy may be effectively deferred in a large proportion of polyposis syndrome patients if maintained on an endoscopic protocol.