Familial Adenomatous Polyposis

Overview

Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is a rare, hereditary colon syndrome that, if not treated, almost always leads to colon cancer. Mayo Clinic is one of the largest colon cancer treatment centers in the world, with particular experience and expertise in familial adenomatous polyposis.

At Mayo, patients who have hereditary colon diseases work with an integrated team of experts, including gastroenterologists, oncologists, interventional radiologists, colorectal surgeons, medical geneticists and, in some cases, reproductive gynecologists. When cancer or other health problems develop outside the colon — a common complication for people with familial adenomatous polyposis — additional Mayo Clinic specialists collaborate with the primary team to provide the most comprehensive treatment possible.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, is ranked No. 1 in Digestive Disorders in the U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals rankings.

Screening and Diagnosis

Mayo Clinic physicians use advanced screening and diagnostic methods, including genetic testing, to help detect FAP long before cancer develops. They also closely monitor patients for polyps and cancers that may occur outside the colon. Read more about familial adenomatous polyposis screening and diagnosis at Mayo Clinic.

Treatment

Most people with FAP eventually need surgery to remove the colon. At Mayo Clinic, teams of surgeons dedicated solely to colorectal surgery use minimally-invasive (laparoscopic) and colostomy-sparing procedures that reduce postoperative pain, hasten recovery and preserve normal bowel function.

Mayo Clinic has one of the largest and most experienced minimally invasive surgery practices in the United States, performing thousands of procedures each year. Read more about familial adenomatous polyposis treatmentt

Children and Adolescents

At Mayo Clinic, children who have or are at risk of familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) receive compassionate care from a team of pediatric specialists. Screening for polyps in at-risk children usually begins at puberty or even earlier and often includes endoscopic exams and genetic testing.

About Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP)

Familial Adenomatous Polyposis

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Familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) is a rare genetic disorder that results from defects in the adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene. Normally, the APC gene controls cell growth. But if the gene is abnormal, cells multiply rapidly, eventually causing hundreds and even thousands of polyps to form in your colon and rectum. When not surgically treated, FAP almost always leads to colorectal cancer by age 40. Read more about familial adenomatous polyposis.