Epithelial polyps of the large intestine. A classification based on biologic behavior

Classifications of colonic polypoid lesions are often based on their pathogenesis. Little attention is paid to the biologic behavior (or predicted behavior, based on experience) of these lesions. Classification based on biologic behavior separates these lesions, regardless of histogenesis, according to possible malignant potential. This helps the clinician to explain the implications of the histopathologic diagnosis to the patient and to understand when aggressive or prophylactic therapy should be pursued.