[Colorectal polyps - Diagnosis, classification, relation to carcinoma (author's transl)]

A growing incidence of colorectal polyps and carcinomas can be observed all over the world. Since 1 January 1978 the clinical-pathological appearance of colorectal polyps has been recorded at Erlangen. Endoscopy combined with histology is necessary for diagnosing them. Localization and histological classification of 2200 colorectal polyps are reported. The adenoma-carcinoma sequence is of paramount importance. Malignant areas can be demonstrated histologically in about 10% of all adenomas.