A polyp is an abnormal growth of cells that projects out from a surface of a tissue, often into a body cavity or open space.  Polyps may be found in the colon, stomach, and uterus, as well as a number of other organs. 

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Most polyps are non-cancerous (benign) growths but but some are made up of pre-cancerous or even cancerous (malignant) cells. Polyps made up of pre-cancerous cells are called precursors because they have the potential to turn into a cancer over time.

 

Polyp is not a diagnosis by itself. Polyp is a description and the diagnosis depends on the location of the polyp and the types of cells in the polyp.

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Common locations for polyps include the colon and the endometrium.

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Pathologists often use the word polypoid to describe an abnormal piece of tissue that shares some but not all of the features of a polyp.

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