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Definition Return to top
Cervical polyps are fingerlike growths originating from the mucosal surface of the cervix or endocervical canal. These small, fragile growths hang from a stalk and protrude through the cervical opening (the os).Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
The cause of cervical polyps is not completely understood, but they are frequently the result of infection. They may be associated with chronic inflammation, an abnormal local response to increased levels of estrogen, or local congestion of cervical blood vessels.
Cervical polyps are relatively common, especially in women over age 20 who have had children. Only a single polyp is present in most cases, but sometimes two or three are found. They are rare before menarche (onset of menstrual periods).
Symptoms Return to top
Signs and tests Return to top
A pelvic examination reveals smooth, red or purple, fingerlike projections from the cervical canal. A cervical biopsy typically reveals mildly atypical cells and signs of infection.
Treatment Return to top
Removal is typically done as a simple, outpatient procedure. Gentle twisting of a cervical polyp is frequently enough to remove it, but normally a polyp is removed by tying a surgical ligature around the base and cutting it off. Removal of the base is done by electrocautery or laser vaporization.
Because many polyps are infected, an antibiotic may be administered after the removal, either prophylactically or with any early signs of infection. Although most cervical polyps are benign, the excised tissue should be sent to a pathologist for microscopic examination.
Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
Typically, polyps are benign and easily removed. Regrowth of polyps is uncommon.
Complications Return to top
Some cervical cancers may first appear as a polyp. Infections may occur after removal.
Calling your health care provider Return to top
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you are a woman, age 20 or older, and have had no prior pelvic examination and Pap smear.
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have not obtained a Pap smear at recommended intervals of:
Prevention Return to top
Because of the potential role of chronic inflammation, infections should always be treated in a timely manner.
Update Date: 5/4/2004 Updated by: Peter Chen, M.D., Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |