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A polyp is an outgrowth of tissue from the lining of the large intestine or small intestine and sometimes the stomach. A polyp may look like a mushroom with a narrow stalk attached to the gastrointestinal wall, or it may grow flat against the gastrointestinal wall.
Most children with a polyp or polyps develop a form of polyp known as a juvenile polyp, which is different than the type typically found in adults. A juvenile polyp usually poses no risk of malignancy (cancer).
Some children may be found to have inherited syndromes in which polyps are common and tend to reoccur over time. These include:
The most common symptom of polyps is blood in the stool for several weeks or months.
Other less common symptoms include:
If your child experiences symptoms of polyps—especially if there is frequent blood in the stool or a polyp is visible outside the rectum—a pediatric gastroenterologist can perform the following exams and tests to make a diagnosis:
Visit the website below to find support groups and services and learn more about polyps.
Riley at IU Health offers a broad range of supportive services to make life better for families who choose us for their children's care.
This website from the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition provides information about the diagnosis and treatment of polyps.
In addition to our primary hospital location at the Academic Health Center in Indianapolis, IN, we have convenient locations to better serve our communities throughout the state.
Sort through 6 facilities offering Gastrointestinal Polyps care by entering your city or zip below.