Familial Adenomatous Polyposis

Treatment of Children

Pediatric specialists at Mayo Clinic work together to provide expert care for children who have familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP).

Familial adenomatous polyposis is the most common genetic polyposis syndrome, occurring in approximately one in every 6,000 children. Those diagnosed with FAP often have hundreds, even thousands, of polyps in their rectum and colon. The large amount of polyps causes problems in the rectum, colon, and entire gastrointestinal tract. This condition can be fatal if not diagnosed; therefore, early detection and intervention are necessary.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of familial adenomatous polyposis is generally the same for both children and adults.

Specialists in Pediatric Gastroenterology and Hepatology and medical genetics evaluate each child, taking careful note of any family history of FAP. Those with a positive family history will typically undergo genetic testing. This information helps the treatment team confirm whether the polyps are being caused by FAP, and can identify which family members carry the mutation.

Treatment Options

In general, treatment options for familial adenomatous polyposis are the same for children and adults.

Surgery is the most common treatment. Because the polyps are too numerous to remove individually, the colon is usually surgically removed (colectomy). In more severe cases, the colon and rectum (proctocolectomy) or colon, rectum, and part (or all) of the anus may be removed.

Appointments

For appointments or more information, call the Central Appointment Office at (507) 538-3270 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Central time Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday.