Chromosome banding pattern in human colonic polyps

The chromosome pattern was studied by conventional and Giemsa banding techniques in 5 polyps from one patient with polyposis coli and in sporadic adenomas from 4 patients. In both the familial and the non-familial types chromosomal changes preceded histologic signs of invasiveness. In both types preferential engagement of chromosomes Nos. 8 and 14 was found, suggesting a similar chromosomal evolution in colonic adenomas regardless of whether they have a hereditary basis or not. The rate of progression, however, was faster in the familia type of colonic polyps, which may reflect the more malignant potential of these tumors.