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Published on: October 17, 2013
Skin tags: a cutaneous marker for colonic polyps.
Skin tags may indicate an increased risk for colonic polyps, even without acromegaly. This study found a significant correlation, suggesting skin tags can be a useful cutaneous marker for identifying individuals needing further investigation for colorectal cancer precursors.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Dermatology
- Oncology
Background:
- Adenomatous colonic polyps are a precursor to colon adenocarcinoma.
- An association between skin tags and colonic polyps exists in patients with acromegaly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if skin tags are a cutaneous marker for colonic polyps, independent of acromegaly.
- To assess the diagnostic value of skin tags for identifying colonic polyps.
Main Methods:
- A study of 100 men undergoing colonoscopy.
- Correlation analysis between the presence of skin tags and colonic polyps.
Main Results:
- A highly significant correlation (p < 0.005) was found between skin tags and colonic polyps.
- Skin tags demonstrated over 75% sensitivity and specificity as a marker for adenomatous colonic polyps.
- 37 out of 46 patients with colonic polyps also had skin tags.
Conclusions:
- Skin tags may serve as a valuable cutaneous marker for identifying patients at increased risk of having colonic polyps.
- This association appears independent of acromegaly in the studied population.
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