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  • Cross section of a generalized coral polyp.
Related terms:
alopecia
bulla
calculi
ectopic tissue
cyst
pathologic dilatation
diverticulum
fistula
hernia
Anatomical Abnormality
polyp Audio
pol·yp [ pol-ip ]
Subclass of:
Pathological Conditions, Anatomical
Definitions related to polyps:
  • A growth that protrudes from a mucous membrane.
    NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
  • A usually exophytic mass attached to the underlying tissue by a broad base or a thin stalk. Polyps can be neoplastic or non-neoplastic. Neoplastic polyps usually represent proliferations of the epithelium, and are commonly seen in the gastrointestinal tract. Polyps of the gastrointestinal tract are often called adenomas, are associated with dysplasia, and may eventually transform into carcinomas. Non-neoplastic polyps may be inflammatory, degenerative, or the result of malformations.
    NCI
    U.S. National Cancer Institute, 2021
  • An abnormal, noncancerous growth that protrudes from mucous membranes, like those found in the sinuses and colon lining.
    Harvard Dictionary of Health Terms
    Harvard Medical Publishing, 2011
  • Discrete abnormal tissue masses that protrude into the lumen of the DIGESTIVE TRACT or the RESPIRATORY TRACT. Polyps can be spheroidal, hemispheroidal, or irregular mound-shaped structures attached to the MUCOUS MEMBRANE of the lumen wall either by a stalk, pedunculus, or by a broad base.
    NLM Medical Subject Headings
    U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2025
  • Polyp, in zoology, one of two principal body forms occurring in members of the animal phylum Cnidaria. The polyp may be solitary, as in the sea anemone, or colonial, as in coral, and is sessile (attached to a surface). The upper, or free, end of the body, which is hollow and cylindrical, typically...
    Encyclopedia Britannica
    Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc., 2025
  • Polyp, in medicine, any growth projecting from the wall of a cavity lined with a mucous membrane. A polyp may have a broad base, in which case it is called sessile; or it may be a pedunculated polyp, i.e., one with a long, narrow neck. The surface of a polyp may be smooth, irregular, or...
    Encyclopedia Britannica
    Encyclopedia Britannica, Inc., 2025
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This content should not be used in place of medically-reviewed decision support reference material or professional medical advice. Some terms may have alternate or updated definitions not reflected in this set. The definitions on this page should not be considered complete or up to date.

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