Updates in the diagnosis and management of non-ampullary small-bowel polyposis

Abstract

Advances in endoscopic instruments and techniques changed the strategy of diagnosis and management for non-ampullary small-bowel polyposis.

In patients with Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, gastrointestinal surveillance using capsule endoscopy should commence no later than eight years old. Small bowel polyps >15 mm should be treated to prevent intussusception. Recently, endoscopic ischemic polypectomy and endoscopic reduction of intussusception were described.

In patients with familial adenomatous polyposis, the first endoscopic screening using a lateral viewing and a longer endoscope to check the proximal jejunum should be performed around 25 years. Some experts recommend a first duodenal examination with a first colonoscopy (13 years). The surveillance intervals for duodenal polyposis should be adjusted individually. ESGE recommended the resection of every adenoma larger than 1 cm. Cold snare polypectomy has the potential to change the threshold of size for endoscopic resection.

In patients with Juvenile polyposis syndrome, small bowel involvement seems infrequent and mostly located in the duodenal part. There is no indication for distal small bowel investigation.