Fernanda Monge-Urrea, Servicio de Gastroenterología Pediátrica, Centro Médico ABC, Ciudad de México, México
Jerónimo Sánchez-Medina, Servicio de Pedriatría, Centro Médico ABC, Ciudad de México, México
Pablo R. Casaubon-Garcín, Servicio de Gastroenterología Pediátrica, Centro Médico ABC, Ciudad de México, México
Juvenile polyps are uncommon in infants, and their presence in the lower gastrointestinal tract can cause significant bleeding. We present an exceptional case of an infant with painless lower gastrointestinal bleeding, diagnosed with a solitary juvenile polyp. A previously healthy 3-month-old infant presented with painless rectal bleeding after defecation. During the examination, a prolapsed rectal polyp was observed, which spontaneously reduced. Colonoscopy revealed a 1 cm polyp, which was resected using a hot snare technique. Histopathological analysis showed an extensively ulcerated juvenile polyp with acute inflammation but no dysplasia. The patient remained asymptomatic after polyp resection. Juvenile polyps are rare in infants, and their presence should be considered in the differential diagnosis of gastrointestinal bleeding. A complete medical history, physical examination, and digital rectal examination can guide the diagnosis in most cases, but performing a diagnostic colonoscopy is important in cases of diagnostic uncertainty. This report highlights the rarity of juvenile polyps in children under 1 year old and emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in managing such cases.
Keywords: Polyp. Juvenile polyp. Gastrointestinal bleeding. Infant.