Adenoma and Malignant Colorectal Polyp: Pathological Considerations and Clinical Applications

Colon cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related morbidity and mortality worldwide and it is generally accepted that most colorectal cancers arise from precursor adenomatous polyps. Malignant colorectal polyps should be resected en bloc, if possible, to facilitate thorough evaluation by the pathologist. This review will discuss the important parameters of malignant polyps that are prognostically important, with special emphasis on the pathological assessment of these polyps, which is important for planning further management and treatment strategies for patients.