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Hyperplastic Polyps

Hyperplastic polyps are a type of noncancerous (benign) growths found in the colon. They are usually small and make up about 10% to 30% of all colorectal polyps.

Hyperplastic polyps:

  • Usually are less than 10 mm (0.4 in.) in size.
  • Increase in number as a person ages.
  • Do not develop into cancer.

Hyperplastic polyps looks similar to small precancerous (adenomatous) polyps. If there is a question about whether a polyp is adenomatous, your doctor may take a tissue sample (biopsy).

Last Revised: April 27, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Jerome B. Simon, MD, FRCPC, FACP - Gastroenterology

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