Duodenal Epithelial Polyps: A Clinicopathologic Review

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Pathology
• Oncology

Background:

• Duodenal epithelial polyps affect 1.5-3% of patients undergoing upper endoscopy.
• While most polyps are benign, a subset is neoplastic and can progress to adenocarcinoma.
• Advances in immunohistochemistry and molecular techniques enhance polyp characterization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review clinicopathologic features of duodenal polyps.
• To emphasize updated classification schemes and risk stratification.
• To highlight immunohistochemical and molecular profiles.

Main Methods:

• Review of peer-reviewed literature.
• Inclusion of authors' clinical experiences.
• Analysis of clinicopathologic, immunohistochemical, and molecular data.

Main Results:

• Characterization of nonneoplastic and neoplastic duodenal polyps.
• Identification of specific duodenal adenoma phenotypes (intestinal, gastric, serrated).
• Assessment of malignant transformation risk associated with polyp phenotypes.

Conclusions:

• Updated understanding of duodenal polyp features.
• Importance of recognizing high-risk adenoma phenotypes.
• Guidance on surveillance and treatment strategies for duodenal polyps.