Long‐term use of proton pump inhibitors does not affect the frequency, growth, or histologic characteristics of colon adenomas

Abstract

The clinical significance of the trophic effects of long-term proton pump inhibitors (PPI)-related hypergastrinemia on colon polyps remains unknown. To study the frequency, growth, and histology of colon polyps in patients on chronic PPI therapy (cases), compared to those not receiving acid suppression (controls). Medical records of 2868 consecutive patients who underwent two or more colonoscopies, performed 3 or more months apart were reviewed. Cases (116) that used PPIs between the two colonoscopies were then compared to controls (194). Demographics and risk factors for colon cancer were comparable between the two groups. At baseline the mean frequency and size of adenomatous polyps were similar in cases and controls (P > 0.05) and at follow-up, these were 0.89 and 1.18 (P > 0.05; 95% CI of -0.08 to 0.66) and 4.09 mm and 4.00 mm (P > 0.05; 95% CI -2.29 to 2.11), respectively with no significant change. However, control group had a higher mean frequency and size of hyperplastic polyps at baseline as well as at follow-up colonoscopy (P < 0.05). The long-term use of PPI does not influence the frequency, growth, or histology of adenomatous polyps, but is associated with a reduction in both baseline and interval development of hyperplastic polyps.