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Acromegaly, colonic polyps and carcinoma
P J Jenkins1, P D Fairclough, T Richards
1Department of Endocrinology, St Bartholomew's Hospital, London, UK.
Clinical Endocrinology
|July 1, 1997
Summary
Patients with acromegaly face a significantly higher risk of colorectal cancer and adenomas. Regular colonoscopies are recommended for early detection and management of these conditions in acromegaly patients.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Gastroenterology
- Oncology
Background:
- Acromegaly is associated with potential increased risk of colorectal carcinoma.
- Understanding this risk is crucial for patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the prevalence of colorectal carcinoma, tubulovillous adenomas, and hyperplastic polyps in acromegaly patients.
- To clarify the association between acromegaly and colorectal neoplasia.
Main Methods:
- Prospective colonoscopic examination in 129 patients with biochemically proven acromegaly.
- Single operator performed all colonoscopies.
Main Results:
- Colorectal cancer detected in 5% of patients, with an increased odds ratio of 13.5 compared to normal subjects.
- Tubulovillous adenomas found in 26% of patients, with age-dependent prevalence.
- Increased prevalence of left-sided colonic adenomas in patients over 49 years (odds ratio 4.2).
Conclusions:
- Acromegaly patients exhibit a significantly higher risk of colorectal cancer and prevalence of tubulovillous adenomas.
- Routine surveillance colonoscopy is indicated for patients with acromegaly.