Gastrointestinal polyps with atypical presentations: A case series

Gastrointestinal (GI) polyps are uncommon connective tissue or epithelial tumors that typically affect the colon but can affect any part of the digestive system, from the esophagus to the ano-rectum. They may be solitary or multiple, sporadic or inherited, benign or malignant. The risk of malignancy is strongly associated with the type and size of the polyp. GI lipomas and GI stromal tumors are both rare causes of GI polyps which may present with GI hemorrhage or obstruction. Most polyps are asymptomatic and are detected incidentally when patients are being worked up for unrelated symptoms. When present, the symptoms might vary, but the most frequent ones are abdominal pain, GI bleeding, intussusceptions, and intestinal obstruction. A surgeon with keen clinical suspicion can make an early diagnosis to help avoid serious inherent complications.