Endoscopic treatment of severe duodenal polyposis as an alternative to surgery for patients with familial adenomatous polyposis

Hereditary Colorectal Cancer Syndromes: Small Bowel Cancer Risk and Endoscopic Surveillance Strategies

Background: Hereditary colorectal cancer syndromes, including familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), Lynch syndrome (LS), and Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS), are associated with an increased risk of small bowel cancer (SBC). Due to the low incidence and non-specific presentation of SBC, effective surveillance strategies are essential for early detection and management. This review aims to evaluate and compare current endoscopic techniques for small bowel surveillance in these patients. Methods: A comprehensive review was conducted using peer-reviewed studies sourced from PubMed. Various endoscopic modalities, including capsule endoscopy (CE), device-assisted enteroscopy (DAE), and intraoperative enteroscopy (IOE), were assessed for their diagnostic yield, safety, and clinical utility. Surveillance recommendations of the different syndromes were also examined. Results: CE offers high sensitivity but lacks histological sampling capability. DAE, including double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE) and single-balloon enteroscopy (SBE), enables direct visualization, biopsy, and therapeutic interventions, albeit with greater procedural complexity. In FAP, duodenal surveillance follows the Spigelman classification to stratify cancer risk, while jejunal and ileal polyps remain less studied. LS patients have an increased SBC risk, warranting tailored endoscopic approaches. In PJS, surveillance aims to mitigate intussusception risks and allow early malignancy detection. Conclusions: Optimized surveillance strategies in hereditary colorectal cancer syndromes require a multimodal approach, integrating advanced endoscopic techniques with genetic risk stratification. Centralized care in tertiary centers improves outcomes by ensuring standardized surveillance protocols and enhancing early cancer detection. Artificial intelligence (AI) applied to CE and DAE is shaping promising prospects for the future surveillance of small bowel polyps by enhancing diagnostic accuracy and reducing the duration of the diagnostic process. Further research should investigate AI-assisted imaging and molecular biomarkers to optimize screening strategies.

Endoscopic indicators in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis undergoing duodenal resections - a nationwide Danish cohort study with long-term follow-up

BACKGROUND

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) predisposes individuals to duodenal adenomas. This study describes the histopathological features of endoscopic and surgical specimens from the duodenum, as well as genotype-phenotype associations.

METHODS

All known FAP patients were included from the Danish Polyposis Register. FAP patients were defined as having more than 100 cumulative colorectal adenomas and/or having a known germline pathogenic variant in the APC gene. Endoscopic procedures, histopathology, and genetics were evaluated.

RESULTS

Of 500 FAP patients, 70.6% underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) at least once. Of these, 59.2% presented with detectable duodenal adenomas. The most severe morphology was tubular in 62.7% patients, tubulovillous in 25.4%, and villous in 12.0%, while the most severe dysplasia was low-grade in 67.5% patients, high-grade in 25.4%, and 6.7% had adenocarcinoma. In 6.2% of FAP patients, duodenal resection was recommended, including 29% with duodenal adenocarcinoma. The risk of duodenal surgery was 1.31 per 1,000 person-years (median age: 53 years). The predominant reason for surgery was extensive polyposis (67.7%). Of the patients who underwent duodenal resection, a median of six (IQR: 4-8) EGDs were performed within five years prior to surgery, but 67.6% and 83.9% never underwent a duodenal polypectomy or endoscopic mucosa resection, respectively. Of note, seventeen of 500 patients (3.4%) developed duodenal adenocarcinoma, of which 47% were advanced at diagnosis. Genetic evaluations revealed various pathogenic variants in the APC gene, with no strong genotype-phenotype association.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of duodenal adenomas and cancer in FAP warrants vigilant endoscopic surveillance. Nevertheless, the need for duodenal surgery persists and should together with endoscopic practice be monitored in national registers.

Impact of Endoscopic Treatment in Severe Duodenal Polyposis: A National Study in Familial Adenomatous Polyposis Patients

BACKGROUND & AIMS

The majority of patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) develop duodenal adenomas with a risk of progression to duodenal cancer. Endoscopic management of FAP duodenal adenomas has been proposed as a less-invasive option than surgery, but available data still are limited. Our aims were to assess the feasibility and safety of endoscopic treatment in duodenal polyposis and to evaluate its long-term efficacy in terms of recurrence and malignant degeneration.

METHODS

FAP patients with stage IV duodenal polyposis were enrolled in 5 French centers as part of a national cohort and followed up for a median period of 5.66 years (interquartile range, 6.39 y). Primary outcomes were duodenal surgery-free and cancer-free survival. Two groups of patients were identified according to endoscopic procedures: group 1: resection and or destruction (by argon plasma coagulation) of duodenal polyps, and group 2: papillectomy.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight patients were enrolled (29 men; median age, 44 y). Endoscopic therapy was performed in 37 patients in group 1 and in 19 patients in group 2. Duodenal cancer-free and surgery-free survival were 95.8% at 5 years and 92.6% at 10 years. Four patients required surgery and 2 patients developed cancers. In the 58 patients, the calculated Spigelman score decreased from 9.24 points at entry to 6.35 at 5 years and then plateaued. Complications (mostly bleeding and perforation) occurred in 20 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

In this long-term cohort follow-up evaluation, endoscopic treatment of patients with severe duodenal polyposis appears relatively safe and effective as an alternative to surgery for the prevention of cancer.

Endoscopic scoring indices for assessing disease severity in familial adenomatous polyposis: Systematic review

Background and study aims There is limited consensus on the optimal method for measuring disease severity in familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). We aimed to systematically review the operating properties of existing endoscopic severity indices for FAP. Methods We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library from inception to February 2023 to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that utilized endoscopic outcomes or studies that evaluated the operating properties of endoscopic disease severity indices in FAP. Results A total of 134 studies were included. We evaluated scoring indices and component items of scoring indices, such as polyp count, polyp size, and histology. Partial validation was observed for polyp count and size. The most commonly reported scoring index was the Spigelman classification system, which was used for assessing the severity of duodenal involvement. A single study reported almost perfect interobserver and intra-observer agreement for this system. The InSIGHT polyposis staging system, which was used for assessing colorectal polyp burden, has been partially validated. It showed substantial interobserver reliability; however, the intra-observer reliability was not assessed. Novel criteria for high-risk gastric polyps have been developed and assessed for interobserver reliability. However, these criteria showed a poor level of agreement. Other scoring indices assessing the anal transition zone, duodenal, and colorectal polyps have not undergone validation. Conclusions There are no fully validated endoscopic disease severity indices for FAP. Development and validation of a reliable and responsive endoscopic disease severity instrument will be informative for clinical care and RCTs of pharmacological therapies for FAP.

Current management of familial adenomatous polyposis

INTRODUCTION

APC-associated polyposis is a rare hereditary disorder characterized by the development of multiple adenomas in the digestive tract. Individuals with APC-associated polyposis need to be managed by specialized multidisciplinary teams in dedicated centers.

AREAS COVERED

The study aimed to review the literature on Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) to provide an update on diagnostic and surgical management while focusing on strategies to minimize the risk of desmoid-type fibromatosis, cancer in anorectal remnant, and postoperative complications. FAP individuals require a comprehensive approach that includes diagnosis, surveillance, preventive surgery, and addressing specific extracolonic concerns such as duodenal and desmoid tumors. Management should be personalized considering all factors: genotype, phenotype, and personal needs. Total colectomy and ileo-rectal anastomosis have been shown to yield superior QoL results when compared to Restorative Procto colectomy and ileopouch-anal anastomosis with acceptable oncological risk of developing cancer in the rectal stump if patients rigorously adhere to lifelong endoscopic surveillance. Additionally, a low-inflammatory diet may prevent adenomas and cancer by modulating systemic and tissue inflammatory indices.

EXPERT OPINION

FAP management requires a multidisciplinary and personalized approach. Integrating genetic advances, innovative surveillance techniques, and emerging therapeutic modalities will contribute to improving outcomes and quality of life for FAP individuals.

The Spigelman Staging System and the Risk of Duodenal and Papillary Cancer in Familial Adenomatous Polyposis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

INTRODUCTION

Individuals with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) have an almost 20% lifetime risk of duodenal adenocarcinoma, currently the leading cause of death in FAP. The Spigelman staging system provides guidance on the surveillance intervals and timing of prophylactic surgery. Still, its accuracy in predicting duodenal and papillary cancer development has not been systematically evaluated. We investigated the sensitivity and cancer risk of the Spigelman stages.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review on PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane and used a random-effects model to pool effect sizes.

RESULTS

After removing duplicate entries, we screened 1,170 records and included 27 studies for quantitative analysis. Once duodenal polyposis reaches Spigelman stage IV, the risk of duodenal and papillary cancers increased to 25% (95% confidence interval [CI] 12%-45%). However, the sensitivity of Spigelman stage IV for these cancers was low (51%, 95% CI 42%-60%), especially for papillary adenocarcinoma (39%, 95% CI 16%-68%). We investigated the reasons behind these low values and observed that duodenal cancer risk factors included polyps >10 mm, polyp count >20, and polyps with high-grade dysplasia. Risk factors associated with papillary cancer included a papilla with high-grade dysplasia or >10 mm. The evidence on other risk factors was inconclusive.

DISCUSSION

The current Spigelman staging system had a low sensitivity for duodenal and papillary adenocarcinomas. Two Spigelman variables (duodenal villous histology and polyp count) and the lack of papilla-specific variables likely contributed to the low sensitivity values for duodenal and papillary cancers, respectively. While clinicians may be familiar with its current form, there is an urgent need to update it.

Advancements in endoscopic management of small-bowel polyps in Peutz-Jeghers syndrome and familial adenomatous polyposis

Before the development of double-balloon enteroscopy (DBE), the standard management of small-bowel polyposis was surgical resection. This is an invasive procedure that could lead to short bowel syndrome. In the 21st century, several new enteroscopy techniques were distributed worldwide, including DBE, single-balloon enteroscopy, spiral enteroscopy, and motorized spiral enteroscopy. These devices enable the diagnoses and endoscopic interventions in the entire small bowel, even in patients with a history of laparotomy. In patients with Peutz-Jeghers syndrome (PJS), endoscopic ischemic polypectomy with clips or a detachable snare is the preferred method for managing pedunculated polyps because it is less likely to cause adverse events than conventional polypectomy. Although polyps in patients with PJS always recur, repeat endoscopic resection can reduce the total number and mean size of polyps in the long-term clinical course. Endoscopic reduction of small-bowel intussusception caused by PJS polyps can be successfully performed using DBE without surgery. A transparent hood is useful for securing a visual field during the treatment of small-bowel polyps, and minimal water exchange method is recommended to facilitate deep insertion. Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is a genetic disorder that increases the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Because jejunal and ileal polyps in patients with FAP have the potential to develop into cancer via the adenoma-carcinoma sequence, periodical surveillance, and endoscopic resection are needed for them, not only polyps in the duodenum. In cases of multiple small-bowel polyps in patients with FAP, cold snare polypectomy without retrieval is an acceptable treatment option for polyps that are 10 mm or smaller in size. Additional good pieces of evidence are necessary to confirm these findings because this narrative review mostly includes retrospective observational studies from single center, case reports, and expert reviews.

Progression of duodenal neoplasia to advanced adenoma in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis

BACKGROUND

Patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) have a lifetime risk of developing duodenal adenomas approaching 100%, and the relative risk for duodenal cancer compared with the general population is high. We conducted a retrospective study to investigate the progression of non-ampullary duodenal adenomas (NADAs) and risk factors for advanced lesions in patients with FAP.

METHODS

Of 248 patients with 139 pedigrees at 2 institutes, we assessed 151 patients with 100 pedigrees with a pathogenic germline variant in the adenomatous polyposis coli gene, excluding mosaic variants. We evaluated the prevalence of NADAs in patients with FAP, the progression of these adenomas to advanced adenoma during the observation period, and the risk factors for the lifetime development of high-grade dysplasia (HGD), large (≥ 10 mm) duodenal adenomas, and Spiegelman stage IV.

RESULTS

During the median observation period of 7 years, the incidences of patients with NADAs, with more than 20 polyps, with polyps ≥ 10 mm, with HGD, and with stage IV at the last esophagogastroduodenoscopy were increased 1.6-fold, 1.7-fold, 5-fold, 22-fold, and 9-fold, respectively. Intramucosal cancer occurred in three patients (2%), but no patients developed invasive cancer during the observation period because we performed endoscopic intervention for advanced adenomas. Stage progression was observed in 71% of 113 patients. Stage IV was more common in women, patients with a history of colectomy, and those with a 3' side mutation in their adenomatous polyposis coli gene.

CONCLUSIONS

NADAs in patients with FAP frequently become exacerbated. Our findings suggest that patients with FAP who develop duodenal adenomas should be surveyed to prevent the development of duodenal cancer.

Cold snare polypectomy for duodenal adenomas in familial adenomatous polyposis: a prospective international cohort study

Background and study aims In patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), endoscopic resection of duodenal adenomas is commonly performed to prevent cancer and prevent or defer duodenal surgery. However, based on studies using different resection techniques, adverse events (AEs) of polypectomy in the duodenum can be significant. We hypothesized that cold snare polypectomy (CSP) is a safe technique for duodenal adenomas in FAP and evaluated its outcomes in our centers. Patients and methods We performed a prospective international cohort study including FAP patients who underwent CSP for one or more superficial non-ampullary duodenal adenomas of any size between 2020 and 2022. At that time, this technique was common practice in our centers for superficial duodenal adenomas. The primary outcome was the occurrence of intraprocedural and post-procedural AEs. Results In total, 133 CSPs were performed in 39 patients with FAP (1-18 per session). Median adenoma size was 10 mm (interquartile range 8-15 mm), ranging from 5 to 40 mm; 27 adenomas were ≥20 mm (20%). Of the 133 polypectomies, 109 (82%) were performed after submucosal injection. Sixty-one adenomas (46%) were resected en bloc and 72 (54%) piecemeal. Macroscopic radical resection was achieved for 129 polypectomies (97%). Deep mural injury type II occurred in three polyps (2%) with no delayed perforation after prophylactic clipping. There were no clinically significant bleeds, perforations or other post-procedural AEs. Histopathology showed low-grade dysplasia in all 133 adenomas. Conclusions CSP for (multiple) superficial non-ampullary duodenal adenomas in FAP seems feasible and safe. Long-term prospective research is needed to evaluate whether protocolized duodenal polypectomies prevent cancer and surgery.

Cancer in Patients With Familial Adenomatous Polyposis: A Nationwide Danish Cohort Study With Matched Controls

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is a hereditary disorder that predisposes patients to colorectal cancer (CRC). Prophylactic colectomy has greatly reduced the risk of CRC. However, new associations between FAP and the risk of other cancers have subsequently emerged. In this study, we assessed the risk of specific primary and secondary cancers among patients with FAP compared with matched controls.

METHODS

All known patients with FAP up until April 2021 were identified in the nationwide Danish Polyposis Register and paired with 4 unique controls matched by birth year, sex, and postal code. The risk of overall cancers, specific cancer types, and risk of a second primary cancer was assessed and compared with controls.

RESULTS

The analysis included 565 patients with FAP and 1890 controls. The overall risk of cancer was significantly higher for patients with FAP than for controls (hazard ratio [HR], 4.12; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.28-5.17; P < .001). The increased risk was mainly due to CRC (HR, 4.61; 95% CI, 2.58-8.22; P < .001), pancreatic cancer (HR, 6.45; 95% CI, 2.02-20.64; P = .002), and duodenal/small-bowel cancer (HR, 14.49; 95% CI, 1.76-119.47; P = .013), whereas no significant difference was observed for gastric cancer (HR, 3.29; 95% CI, 0.53-20.23; P = .20). Furthermore, the risk of a second primary cancer was significantly higher for patients with FAP (HR, 1.89; 95% CI, 1.02-3.50; P = .042). Between 1980 and 2020, the risk of cancer among patients with FAP decreased by ∼50%.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite an absolute reduction in the risk of developing cancer among patients with FAP, the risk remained significantly higher than for the background population due to colorectal, pancreatic, and duodenal/small-bowel cancers.

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

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.

Endoscopic Surveillance and Treatment of Upper GI Tract Lesions in Patients with Familial Adenomatous Polyposis-A New Perspective on an Old Disease

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is an autosomal dominant disease caused by a germline mutation in the adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene. Patients with FAP develop up to thousands of colorectal adenomas as well as lesions in the upper GI tract. In FAP, the upper digestive lesions include gastric fundic gland polyps (FGPs), antrum adenomas, duodenal or small intestinal adenomas, and carcinoma. Patients, after colectomy, are still at significant risk for extracolonic malignancies. Advances in endoscope resolution and optical enhancement technologies allow endoscopists to provide assessments of benign and malignant polyps. For this reason, in the past decades, endoscopic resection techniques have become the first line of treatment in patients with polyps in the upper GI, whereby polyps and even early cancers can be successfully cured. In FAP patients, endoscopic ampullectomy appears to be a safe and effective way of treating patients with ampullary tumors. According to current indications, endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) and stenting of the main pancreatic duct follow ampullectomy.

Pancreas-preserving total duodenectomy for advanced duodenal polyposis in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis: short and long-term outcomes

BACKGROUND

In patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), extensive nonmalignant duodenal polyposis not amenable to endoscopic management demands surgical resection for which pancreas-preserving total duodenectomy (PPTD) offers a pancreatic parenchyma sparing approach.

METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort study including consecutive patients who underwent PPTD for FAP. Reconstruction involved a Billroth II anastomosis with a short isolated jejunal limb to facilitate future endoscopic surveillance. Short and long-term outcomes were evaluated.

RESULTS

Overall, 30 patients underwent PPTD for Spigelman stage III (n = 6) or IV (n = 24). Sixteen patients experienced a severe complication (Clavien-Dindo grade III/IV) including postoperative pancreatic fistula (ISGPS grade B/C) in twelve. There was no all cause in-hospital and 90-day mortality. During follow-up (median 125 months), five patients developed acute pancreatitis, one new-onset diabetes and one exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. During endoscopic surveillance in 27 patients, jejunal adenomas were detected in 22 and advanced adenomas in 11. An additional surgical resection was required in four patients with extensive jejunal polyposis. None developed jejunal cancer. The 10-year overall survival rate was 93.3%.

CONCLUSION

Postoperative morbidity after PPTD is substantial but on the long-term, rates of pancreatic insufficiencies are low. Most patients develop jejunal adenomas at follow-up, highlighting the need for endoscopic surveillance.

Role of endoscopy in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is a hereditary disease that, without intervention, will cause nearly all patients to develop colorectal cancer by the age of 45. However, even after prophylactic colorectal surgery the eventual development of duodenal adenomas leads to an additional risk of duodenal and ampullary cancers. Endoscopy is an essential part of the multidisciplinary management of FAP to aid the early identification or prevention of advanced gastrointestinal malignancy. This review article details the current evidence and consensus guidance available regarding the role of endoscopic surveillance and treatment strategies for FAP.

Management of familial adenomatous polyposis and MUTYH-associated polyposis; new insights

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) and MUTYH-associated polyposis (MAP) are rare inherited polyposis syndromes with a high colorectal cancer (CRC) risk. Therefore, frequent endoscopic surveillance including polypectomy of relevant premalignant lesions from a young age is warranted in patients. In FAP and less often in MAP, prophylactic colectomy is indicated followed by lifelong endoscopic surveillance of the retained rectum after (sub)total colectomy and ileal pouch after proctocolectomy to prevent CRC. No consensus is reached on the right type and timing of colectomy. As patients with FAP and MAP nowadays have an almost normal life-expectancy due to adequate treatment of colorectal polyposis, challenges in the management of FAP and MAP have shifted towards the treatment of duodenal and gastric adenomas as well as desmoid treatment in FAP. Whereas up until recently upper gastrointestinal surveillance was mostly diagnostic and patients were referred for surgery once duodenal or gastric polyposis was advanced, nowadays endoscopic treatment of premalignant lesions is widely performed. Aiming to reduce polyp burden in the colorectum as well as in the upper gastrointestinal tract, several chemopreventive agents are currently being studied.

Endoscopic management of non-ampullary duodenal adenomas

Duodenal polyps are found in 0.1 % to 0.8 % of all upper endoscopies. Duodenal adenomas account for 10 % to 20 % of these lesions. They can be sporadic or occur in the setting of a hereditary predisposition syndrome, mainly familial adenomatous polyposis. Endoscopy is the cornerstone of management of duodenal adenomas, allowing for diagnosis and treatment, primarily by endoscopic mucosal resection. The endoscopic treatment of duodenal adenomas has a high morbidity, reaching 15 % in a prospective study, consisting of bleeding and perforations, and should therefore be performed in expert centers. The local recurrence rate ranges from 9 % to 37 %, and is maximal for piecemeal resections of lesions > 20 mm. Surgical resection of the duodenum is flawed with major morbidity and considered a rescue procedure in cases of endoscopic treatment failures or severe endoscopic complications such as duodenal perforations. In this paper, we review the existing evidence on endoscopic diagnosis and treatment of non-ampullary duodenal adenomas.

Endoscopic management of duodenal adenomatosis in familial adenomatous polyposis-A case-based review

Adenomatous polyposis (AP) diseases, including familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), attenuated FAP (AFAP), and MUTYH‐associated polyposis (MAP), are the second most common hereditary causes of colorectal cancer. A frequent extra‐colonic manifestation of AP disease is duodenal polyposis, which may lead to duodenal cancer in up to 18% of AP patients. Endoscopic surveillance is recommended at 0.5‐ to 5‐year intervals depending on the extent of polyp growth and histological progression. Although the Spigelman classification is traditionally used to determine surveillance intervals, it lacks information on the (peri‐)ampullary site, where 50% of duodenal carcinomas are located. Hence, information on the papilla has recently been added as a prognostic marker. Patients with duodenal adenoma(s) ≥10 mm and ampullary adenomas of any size are suggested to be referred to an expert center for endoscopic therapy, particularly endoscopic mucosal resection and endoscopic ampullectomy. Nonetheless, despite the logic of this approach, the long‐term efficacy of endoscopic therapy is still to be demonstrated.

Endoscopic management of duodenal adenomas in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Almost all patients with familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) develop duodenal adenomas, with a 4% to 18% risk of progression into duodenal cancer. Prophylactic endoscopic resection of duodenal adenomas may prevent cancer and is considered safer than surgical alternatives; however, data are limited. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess safety and effectiveness of endoscopic duodenal interventions in patients with FAP.

METHODS

We performed a historical cohort study including patients with FAP who underwent an endoscopic duodenal intervention between 2002 and 2018. Safety was defined as adverse event rate per intervention and effectiveness as duodenal surgery-free and duodenal cancer-free survival. Change in Spigelman stage was assessed as a secondary outcome.

RESULTS

In 68 endoscopy sessions, 139 duodenal polypectomies were performed in 49 patients (20 men; median age, 43). Twenty-nine patients (14 men; median age, 49) underwent a papillectomy. After polypectomy, 9 (13%) bleedings and 1 (2%) perforation occurred, all managed endoscopically. Six (21%) bleedings (endoscopically managed), 4 (14%) cases of pancreatitis, and 1 (3%) perforation (conservatively treated) occurred after papillectomy. Duodenal surgery-free survival was 74% at 89 months after polypectomy and 71% at 71 months after papillectomy; no duodenal cancers were observed. After a median of 18 months (interquartile range, 10-40; range, 3-121) after polypectomy, Spigelman stages were significantly lower (P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS

In our FAP patients, prophylactic duodenal polypectomies were relatively safe. Papillectomies showed substantial adverse events, suggesting its benefits and risk should be carefully weighted. Both were effective, however, because surgical interventions were limited and none developed duodenal cancer.

[Gastrointestinal polyposis syndromes]

BACKGROUND

Gastrointestinal polyposis syndromes are the second most common cause of hereditary colorectal carcinomas after Lynch syndrome (hereditary non-polyposis colon cancer, HNPCC). The detection of a causal germline mutation in an affected family member serves for differential diagnosis, assessment of the recurrence risk and predictive testing of healthy individuals at risk.

OBJECTIVES

The present article aims to provide an overview of the differential diagnosis of different gastrointestinal polyposis syndromes based on the endoscopic findings, polyp histology, extraintestinal phenotype and molecular genetic diagnostics.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The present article is based on a literature search on gastrointestinal polyposis syndromes.

RESULTS

In addition to familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), there are further subtypes of adenomatous polyposis that can often only be distinguished by the detection of a causative germline mutation and are sometimes associated with different extracolonic manifestations. In hamartomatous polyposis syndromes, the clinical overlaps often cause differential diagnostic problems. Serratated polyposis syndrome is possibly the most frequent polyposis syndrome, although its cause is currently largely unexplained.

CONCLUSIONS

Early detection and correct classification of polyposis is crucial for adequate prevention and therapy. Access to multidisciplinary expert centres is useful for the care of families.

American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy guideline on the role of endoscopy in familial adenomatous polyposis syndromes

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) syndrome is a complex entity, which includes FAP, attenuated FAP, and MUTYH-associated polyposis. These patients are at significant risk for colorectal cancer and carry additional risks for extracolonic malignancies. In this guideline, we reviewed the most recent literature to formulate recommendations on the role of endoscopy in this patient population. Relevant clinical questions were how to identify high-risk individuals warranting genetic testing, when to start screening examinations, what are appropriate surveillance intervals, how to identify endoscopically high-risk features, and what is the role of chemoprevention. A systematic literature search from 2005 to 2018 was performed, in addition to the inclusion of seminal historical studies. Most studies were from worldwide registries, which have compiled years of data regarding the natural history and cancer risks in this cohort. Given that most studies were retrospective, recommendations were based on epidemiologic data and expert opinion. Management of colorectal polyps in FAP has not changed much in recent years, as colectomy in FAP is the standard of care. What is new, however, is the developing body of literature on the role of endoscopy in managing upper GI and small-bowel polyposis, as patients are living longer and improved endoscopic technologies have emerged.

Guidelines for the management of hereditary colorectal cancer from the British Society of Gastroenterology (BSG)/Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland (ACPGBI)/United Kingdom Cancer Genetics Group (UKCGG)

Heritable factors account for approximately 35% of colorectal cancer (CRC) risk, and almost 30% of the population in the UK have a family history of CRC. The quantification of an individual's lifetime risk of gastrointestinal cancer may incorporate clinical and molecular data, and depends on accurate phenotypic assessment and genetic diagnosis. In turn this may facilitate targeted risk-reducing interventions, including endoscopic surveillance, preventative surgery and chemoprophylaxis, which provide opportunities for cancer prevention. This guideline is an update from the 2010 British Society of Gastroenterology/Association of Coloproctology of Great Britain and Ireland (BSG/ACPGBI) guidelines for colorectal screening and surveillance in moderate and high-risk groups; however, this guideline is concerned specifically with people who have increased lifetime risk of CRC due to hereditary factors, including those with Lynch syndrome, polyposis or a family history of CRC. On this occasion we invited the UK Cancer Genetics Group (UKCGG), a subgroup within the British Society of Genetic Medicine (BSGM), as a partner to BSG and ACPGBI in the multidisciplinary guideline development process. We also invited external review through the Delphi process by members of the public as well as the steering committees of the European Hereditary Tumour Group (EHTG) and the European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ESGE). A systematic review of 10 189 publications was undertaken to develop 67 evidence and expert opinion-based recommendations for the management of hereditary CRC risk. Ten research recommendations are also prioritised to inform clinical management of people at hereditary CRC risk.

Upper gastrointestinal neoplasia in familial adenomatous polyposis: prevalence, endoscopic features and management

Background

To evaluate the prevalence of upper gastrointestinal (GI) polyps in familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), and to discuss current therapeutic recommendations.

Methods

Clinical, endoscopic, histological and treatment data were retrieved from charts of 102 patients [1958-2016]. Duodenal adenomatosis was classified according to Spigelman stages.

Results

this series comprised 59 women (57.8%) and 43 men (42.1%) with a median age of 32.3 years. Patients underwent 184 endoscopic procedures, the first at a median age of 35.9 years (range, 13-75 years). Fundic gastric polyps (n=31; 30.4%) prevailed in the stomach. While only 5 adenomas were found in the stomach, 33 patients (32.4%) presented duodenal ones. Advanced lesions (n=13; 12.7%) were detected in the stomach (n=2) and duodenum (n=11). During follow-up, Spigelman stages improved in 6 (12.2%) patients, remained unchanged in 25 (51.0%) and worsened in 18 (36.7%). Carcinomas were diagnosed in the stomach and duodenum (4 lesions each, 3.9%), at median ages of 50.2 and 55.0 years, respectively. Advanced lesions and carcinomas were managed through local or surgical resections. Severe complications occurred in only 2 patients (one death). Enteroscopy in 21 patients revealed jejunal adenomas in 12, 11 of whom also presented duodenal adenomas.

Conclusions

There is a high prevalence of upper GI adenomas and cancer in FAP. There were diagnosed fundic gastric polyps (30.4%), duodenal (32.4%) and jejunal adenomas (11.8%), respectively. One third of duodenal polyps progressed slowly throughout the study. The rates of advanced gastroduodenal lesions (12.7%) and cancer (7.8%) raise the need for continuous surveillance during follow-up.

Management of small bowel polyps: from small to big

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Benign small bowel polyps or mass are clinically poorly distinguishable from malignant small bowel masses, and the diagnostic conditions are almost the same. The important point for clinicians is first to take advantage of the different available diagnostic tools to optimize the diagnostic algorithm of a small bowel polyp or mass. Next, according to the clinical situation, associated disease or sporadic situation, the difficulty is to adapt the treatment decision to the patient situation.

RECENT FINDINGS

The last 20 years have been marked by the development of major diagnostic tools for small bowel diseases (capsule endoscopy, cross-sectional imaging with enteroclysis and balloon-assisted enteroscopy) and by the major decrease of intra-operative enteroscopy as a diagnostic mean.

SUMMARY

On the basis of considerable development of capsule endoscopy and the improvement of cross-sectional small bowel imagining, small bowel polyps represent now a frequent clinical situation for gastroenterologists.

Familial adenomatous polyposis in China

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is an autosomal dominant disease with a poor prognosis, and has been studied by clinicians and geneticists in China for the past three decades. It is estimated that FAP has an incidence of between 1 in 8,000 and 1 in 10,000 individuals, and accounts for 0.94% of colorectal cancer cases in China. Recent advances in the understanding of FAP suggest that the genotype of the patient may allow for early diagnosis and surveillance, and guide surgical and chemopreventive management. However, the genetic mechanisms of FAP vary between different countries. FAP in China has its own characteristics, and this may be due to ethnic and geographical genetic variation. In the present review the clinical manifestations and genetics of FAP in China are discussed, as well as the surgical strategies, chemotherapeutics and traditional Chinese medicines used in its treatment. Increased insight into the genetic and clinical features of FAP in the Chinese population may aid in the prevention and management of the disorder.

Management of Patients with Hereditary Colorectal Cancer Syndromes

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most important causes of death in the world. Hereditary CRC is found in 5–10% of CRC patients. In this review, we will focus on the major forms of hereditary CRC and their management according to the most recent literature available.

Duodenal adenoma surveillance in patients with familial adenomatous polyposis

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is a hereditary disorder caused by Adenomatous Polyposis Gene mutations that lead to the development of colorectal polyps with great malignant risk throughout life. Moreover, numerous extracolonic manifestations incorporate different clinical features to produce varied individual phenotypes. Among them, the occurrence of duodenal adenomatous polyps is considered an almost inevitable event, and their incidence rates increase as a patient’s age advances. Although the majority of patients exhibit different grades of duodenal adenomatosis as they age, only a small proportion (1%-5%) of patients will ultimately develop duodenal carcinoma. Within this context, the aim of the present study was to review the data regarding the epidemiology, classification, genetic features, endoscopic features, carcinogenesis, surveillance and management of duodenal polyps in patients with FAP.