Difference between colon polyps and colon cancer

Written by Chen Tian Jing

Colorectal Surgery

Updated on September 30, 2024

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Colon polyps and colon cancer both belong to organic tumors of the colon mucosa, but the fundamental difference is that colon polyps are mostly benign, while colon cancer is a malignant cancer of the intestines. Both colon cancer and colon polyps require examination by electronic colonoscopy for a definitive diagnosis, and further pathological examination is needed. After the detection of colon polyps, it is necessary to promptly perform radiofrequency ablation surgery under electronic colonoscopy. After the detection of colon cancer, it is necessary to complete relevant pelvic and systemic examinations, and after clarifying the local lesions, surgical removal is performed. Postoperatively, based on the size of the cancerous mass and the extent of the lesion, radiation therapy or chemotherapy may be required.

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Is upper gastrointestinal bleeding colon cancer?

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Differentiation between Colon Polyps and Colon Cancer

The most distinct diagnostic criteria between colon polyps and colon cancer are that colon polyps are benign lesions, whereas colon cancer is a malignant tumor of the intestines. Colon polyps are generally small in size or present as multiple polyps, with localized mucosal elevation. They may appear the size of mung beans or be pedunculated, and may be accompanied by mild abdominal pain, generally without blood in the stool. In contrast, during the onset of colon cancer, there is usually abdominal pain accompanied by bloody stools. In the later or advanced stages of colon cancer, after the tumor ruptures, it may also lead to severe gastrointestinal bleeding, as well as overall bodily wasting and anemia. The prognosis for colon polyps is relatively good; regular follow-up checks are sufficient. However, for colon cancer, if detected early, surgical removal can be an option. The survival rate in the middle and late stages is lower than in the early stage, and treatment may require a combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

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Difference between colon polyps and colon cancer

Colon polyps and colon cancer both belong to organic tumors of the colon mucosa, but the fundamental difference is that colon polyps are mostly benign, while colon cancer is a malignant cancer of the intestines. Both colon cancer and colon polyps require examination by electronic colonoscopy for a definitive diagnosis, and further pathological examination is needed. After the detection of colon polyps, it is necessary to promptly perform radiofrequency ablation surgery under electronic colonoscopy. After the detection of colon cancer, it is necessary to complete relevant pelvic and systemic examinations, and after clarifying the local lesions, surgical removal is performed. Postoperatively, based on the size of the cancerous mass and the extent of the lesion, radiation therapy or chemotherapy may be required.