Histopathological Pattern and Demographic Profile of Colorectal Polyp Patients: An Observational Study

Author(s): Mohammad Syedul Islam, Mahedi Hasan, Mohammad Asadur Rahman, Kazi Mohammad Kamrul Islam, Md Jahangir hossain, Naznin Naher

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a significant cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide, with colorectal polyps being well-established precursors in the majority of CRC cases. These polyps are histologically classified into neoplastic and non-neoplastic types, with varying malignant potential. While substantial research on colorectal polyp pathology has been conducted in developed nations, limited data exists from developing countries like Bangladesh. This retrospective cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the histopathological patterns of colorectal polyps in Bangladeshi patients and analyze their distribution by age and gender. The study was conducted at the Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Central Police Hospital, Dhaka, and different private hospital settings involving 98 patients diagnosed with colorectal polyps through colonoscopy. Histopathological examination categorized polyps into neoplastic (adenomas) and non-neoplastic (hyperplastic, inflammatory, juvenile, and other types). Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed to identify associations between polyp characteristics and demographic variables. The most common histological types were hyperplastic polyps (40.4%) and inflammatory polyps (36.4%), with a notable male predominance (81.8%). Hyperplastic polyps were most frequent in the 40–50-year age group, while inflammatory polyps were more common in the 30–40-year range. Rare polyp types, such as juvenile and hamartomatous polyps, were primarily observed in younger patients. Neoplastic polyps were infrequent, and tubular adenomas were evenly distributed across age groups, with a slight increase in the 50–60-year group. The findings reveal distinct histopathological patterns in Bangladeshi patients, highlighting the importance of early detection and targeted screening strategies. Given the rising burden of CRC in Bangladesh due to lifestyle changes and urbanization, these results provide crucial insights for healthcare planning and future research. Establishing routine colorectal screening programs could significantly improve early diagnosis and prevention of CRC in the region.