Incidence of adenomatous colorectal polyps in cardiac transplant recipients

Background. The present study evaluates the effects of long-term immunosuppression after cardiac transplantation on the risk for adenomatous polyps. Methods. The endoscopic procedures performed at LDS and University Hospitals in cardiac transplant recipients were reviewed and compared with results from a previously studied control group. Results. A total of 123 endoscopic procedures were performed in 98 heart transplant patients (59% for cancer screening and 41% for gastrointestinal complaints). Eighty-five percent of patients were male and 15% were female; their mean age was 57 years. In the group <3 years posttransplant, adenomatous polyps were present in 25%, hyperplastic polyps were present in 10%, and synchronous lesions in 3 patients. In the group >3 years posttransplant, adenomatous polyps were present in 16%, hyperplastic polyps were present in 22%, and synchronous lesions in were evident in 3 patients. No significant difference with results from a previously studied control group. Conclusions. Long-term immunosuppression does not increase the risk for adenomatous polyps of the colon.