Is Another Colonoscopy Necessary?
Age: 36 - Gender: Male - Location: USA My spouse underwent a colonoscopy when he was 30 years old, and the findings were detailed as follows: - **Findings** - The sample was described as a 0.5 cm pink, polyp-like irregular tissue preserved in formalin and submitted entirely in cassette D1. - **Results** - The biopsy confirmed a diagnosis of a tubular adenoma found in the rectal polyp. Now, six years have passed since that procedure, and the doctor has advised a follow-up colonoscopy at the five-year mark. Despite this recommendation, he has yet to schedule the examination. It's worth noting that his great-grandfather succumbed to colon cancer, although there are no additional hereditary risks in the family. Given these circumstances, is it advisable for him to pursue another colonoscopy?
Answers (1)
9/9/2025, 12:40:37 AM
OpenHealth AI
It is generally advisable for your spouse to schedule another colonoscopy based on his previous history of a tubular adenoma and the recommendation for follow-up testing. Here’s a clearer breakdown:
Explanation:
-
Previous Findings: Your spouse had a tubular adenoma detected during his last colonoscopy. Tubular adenomas are considered precursors to colorectal cancer but are not cancerous themselves. It's important to monitor any potential changes over time since two-thirds of colorectal cancers arise from adenomatous polyps.
-
Follow-Up Recommendations: Medical guidelines suggest that individuals with a history of adenomatous polyps should undergo follow-up colonoscopy more frequently than the general population. Given that his last procedure was at age 30 and the recommended interval was five years, he is overdue for a new colonoscopy.
-
Family History: While his immediate family may not show hereditary risks, the past occurrence of colon cancer in his great-grandfather is a notable factor. This could suggest a heightened awareness of colorectal health as he ages.
Next Steps:
-
Schedule the Colonoscopy: Make it a priority to contact a gastroenterologist to schedule the colonoscopy as soon as possible. This is critical for early detection and prevention of any potential developments.
-
Prepare for the Procedure: Once the appointment is made, follow any pre-procedure instructions provided, which typically include dietary restrictions and bowel preparation steps.
-
Discuss Family History with the Doctor: At the appointment, it would be helpful for your spouse to discuss his family history of colon cancer with his doctor. This can help tailor future screening recommendations.
-
Stay Informed: Encourage him to educate himself about colorectal health, including symptoms and risk factors, which can facilitate proactive health management beyond screening.
Addressing these steps will help ensure that any potential issues are identified early, contributing to better long-term health outcomes. Your support in this matter can significantly motivate him to prioritize his health.
Related Questions
Is This Neck Sensation Something to Worry About?
I’m a 37-year-old male and for as long as I can remember – dating back to my teenage years – I’ve been experiencing a peculiar sensation. Whenever I abruptly turn my head or stretch my neck in certain ways, I feel something akin to a rubber band being plucked between fingers, rather than the snap of it against skin; it resembles the sound of a guitar string being strummed. Following this sensation, there’s a warm, flowing feeling that spreads from the back of my neck outwards, which is soon followed by a brief episode of pain lasting around 5 to 10 seconds. This intensity subsides into a mild ache that can linger for several hours. While I don’t experience this every single time I move my neck, it’s been a recurring issue since my teenage years. **Medical History:** - In April 2014, I underwent a partial esophagectomy to excise a leiomyoma. **Current Medications:** - Carafate 1g four times daily - Nexium 40mg twice daily - Wellbutrin 450mg once daily - Lexapro 10mg once daily
Concerns Regarding Potential Pleomorphic Adenoma and Ongoing Health Issues
Greetings. I’m a 30-year-old male, recently suspected of having a pleomorphic adenoma, and presently undergoing treatment with penicillin due to a possible strep throat infection. Back in June, I discovered a notable lump developing on my jawline, which has grown quite rapidly. The medical team believes it may be a pleomorphic adenoma, and I am currently waiting for the biopsy results to either confirm the diagnosis or rule out malignancy. Alongside this, I have been suffering from symptoms such as a sore throat, fever, and headaches. After three weeks of these symptoms, I was prescribed Augmentin, which seemed effective at first; however, I have since experienced recurrent instances of illness, totaling three or more episodes. Since the appearance of this lump, I have been persistently feeling run down, plagued by a host of ailments such as strep throat and COVID-19, along with ongoing symptoms like sore throats, fatigue, bodily pains, headaches, and intermittent fevers. Over the summer, I underwent several blood tests to identify the cause of my poor health. Notably, my ASOT levels increased from 319 in June to 350 in September, indicating a recent strep infection. Consequently, my physician has put me on a penicillin regimen, but I have yet to notice any improvement, now on day five of the treatment. Could my ongoing health issues possibly be associated with a benign pleomorphic adenoma? If it turns out to be cancerous, perhaps that would explain my condition; but if it’s not, what could be the underlying cause? Fortunately, all my blood test results came back normal, including CRP levels, and tests for HIV and mononucleosis were also negative.
Is It Time for the ER or Can I Visit Urgent Care?
AFAB, 24, weighing 160 pounds Since last Friday, the 5th of September, 2025, I have been dealing with significant abdominal discomfort, including cramping and bloating. The following day, my symptoms escalated, leading to vomiting which forced me to take a sick day from work. Although I haven’t vomited again since then, the pain fluctuates, remaining persistent, albeit not unbearable, but uncomfortable enough to be distracting. I have struggled to have a satisfactory bowel movement; attempts have resulted in diarrhea, and I constantly feel like my bowels are not completely empty. There is a sensation of pressure when I try to relieve myself, and despite using laxatives and trying an enema, I suspect I may be experiencing some sort of blockage. Thankfully, I haven’t had a fever or experienced a decrease in appetite. I find myself at a crossroads regarding what steps to take next since I have never faced this kind of situation before and have no previous experience with hospitals or emergency rooms. I’m concerned about burdening emergency services for a non-critical issue that could potentially be treated at urgent care. Financially, I am not in a stable position and currently lack health insurance, which adds to my worries about covering any potential upfront costs for urgent care services. What should I do? Should I head straight to the emergency room, or is there a chance I could manage this at urgent care? I’m genuinely anxious about this developing into something more severe and all I want is to feel normal again.
Seeking Advice on Managing a Cyst
I have been diagnosed with a 3.5 cm fluid-filled cyst on my left ovary. Initially, I consulted a physician who prescribed Primolut for three weeks, with instructions to repeat the course afterwards. However, after completing the initial treatment, the symptoms intensified to the point where I found it unbearable to continue the medication. Subsequently, I endured a month-long wait until my menstrual cycle resumed. During this period, I sought a second opinion from another doctor, who informed me that the cyst had reduced to 1.8 cm. She advised me to return for a follow-up in a few weeks. However, when I eventually returned two months later, the cyst had expanded back to 3.5 cm. The doctor presented me with two choices: to undergo a six-month course of medication (which she didn't specify but indicated it would prevent pregnancy) or to consider surgical removal. I'm reaching out for honest and trustworthy advice, as I've encountered some medical professionals who seem more concerned with financial gain than patient care. I have a strong aversion to medication and prefer not to disrupt my hormonal balance or my overall health. Any guidance would be appreciated.
Navigating Autoimmunity Concerns Without Medication: Seeking Options
I’m currently on 5-10mg of nadolol for my postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and dealing with a significant health challenge. I've tested positive for antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) antibodies—my results are notably elevated and have tripled in frequency. Additionally, I have dsDNA and anti-CCP antibodies. I suspect that these conditions emerged after my COVID-19 infection, suggesting a breakdown in my body's peripheral tolerance that must be addressed. While hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) seems like a logical treatment option, my rheumatologist has declined it due to my QT interval measuring around 460. My situation appears to be deteriorating, and with the APS, I am at heightened risk of clotting if left untreated, especially as my symptoms worsen. At this point, my quality of life is significantly compromised. I often find myself bedridden for one to two weeks around the time of my menstrual cycle, which feels incredibly frustrating. Why isn’t more being done for my severe situation? On a daily basis, I endure pain, debilitating brain fog, neurological symptoms, and episodes of vertigo. While not all these issues are solely autoimmune in nature, the APS certainly contributes to them, causing microthrombosis, endothelial damage, and inflammation in the brain—a situation corroborated by the extreme endothelial inflammation visible in my NFC. I’m at UCSF and facing difficulties transferring to another rheumatologist. I am also exploring private clinics, but I’m concerned they will recommend similar approaches. I want to pursue a more aggressive treatment plan, as this current state of affairs is untenable, and focusing on my autoimmunity issues may yield some improvement. One specialist who deals with my overlap syndrome of long COVID, POTS, and APS charges $3,500 for a consultation, but I doubt that they will provide any fresh insights beyond suggesting HCQ. Why is it such an uphill battle to receive adequate care before I experience a clot or sustain organ damage?