Intestinal Polyps in Children
At RWJBarnabas Health, we understand that discovering your child has intestinal polyps can be concerning. Our team of pediatric gastroenterology experts is here to provide comprehensive care and support for your family throughout the diagnosis and treatment process.
What Are Intestinal Polyps?
Intestinal polyps are growths that emerge from the lining of the gastrointestinal tract. They can occur anywhere in the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, or large intestine. In children, intestinal polyps are relatively rare and typically non-cancerous.
Types of Intestinal Polyps We Treat
There are several different types of intestinal polyps that occur in children, including:
- Juvenile polyps
- Polyps associated with genetic syndromes (for example, juvenile polyposis syndrome, Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, familial adenomatosis polyposis syndrome)
- Stomach polyps related to medication use
Our experienced team is equipped to handle even the most complex cases, ensuring your child receives the best possible care.
Intestinal Polyps Causes
The causes of intestinal polyps in children can vary. Most commonly, benign juvenile polyps occur in young children aged 2 to 5 years. In some cases, rare genetic diseases may lead to the development of multiple polyps throughout the intestines. Additionally, prolonged use of acid-blocking medications like proton pump inhibitors may contribute to the formation of stomach polyps.
Intestinal Polyps Symptoms
Symptoms of intestinal polyps can range from noticeable to subtle. Common signs include:
- Blood in the stool, often accompanied by mucus
- Anemia due to chronic blood loss
- Potential intestinal blockages, especially with polyps in the small intestine
It's important to note that many polyps may not cause any noticeable symptoms. Regular checkups with your pediatrician can help detect any issues early.
Intestinal Polyps Diagnosis
Our skilled pediatric gastroenterologists use a variety of diagnostic tools to identify intestinal polyps, including:
When there are multiple polyps are present, genetic testing may be recommended to determine if there is an underlying genetic condition.
Intestinal Polyps Treatments
Treatment for intestinal polyps typically involves removal, which can be done through endoscopic or surgical means.
Endoscopic removal uses a specialized instrument inserted through the mouth or rectum, while surgical removal may be necessary in more complex cases.
Our team will carefully evaluate your child's condition to determine the most appropriate treatment approach.
Help for Pediatric Intestinal Polyps
While preventing intestinal polyps is impossible, regular checkups with your pediatrician can help detect any issues early. If you're concerned about intestinal polyps in your child, don't hesitate to reach out. Our expert pediatric gastroenterology team at RWJBarnabas Health is here to provide the care and support your family needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation or learn more about our comprehensive treatment options.