Histopathology of serrated adenoma, its variants, and differentiation from conventional adenomatous and hyperplastic polyps.

CONTEXT

Serrated adenomas can be morphologically subdivided into traditional and sessile types. They are thought to have a comparable rate of cancer progression like conventional adenomas, but they potentially have a faster rate of growth through methylation pathway(s). They share similar morphologic features with both the conventional adenoma and the hyperplastic polyp in a fashion that is different from a mixed adenoma and a hyperplastic polyp.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the histopathologic features of traditional serrated adenoma and sessile serrated adenoma and their comparison with traditional adenomas and hyperplastic polyp.

DATA SOURCES

Relevant articles in peer-review journals and the authors' working experience as practicing surgical pathologists with a specific interest in gastrointestinal pathology.

CONCLUSIONS

Both types of serrated adenomas, traditional serrated adenoma and sessile serrated adenoma, are morphologically distinct, clinically important entities, and they can be diagnosed accurately in routine practice.