Rectal polyps are benign growths that can form on the inner lining of the rectum or colon in children. Though typically non-cancerous, they can cause alarming symptoms like rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, and straining during bowel movements. In rare cases, they may correlate with urological issues like bedwetting, foul-smelling urine, or even dysfunctional voiding, making evaluation at a specialized pediatric urology clinic in Nagpur crucial.
What Is a Rectal Polyp?
- A rectal polyp is a small mass of tissue protruding from the lining of the rectum.
- Most commonly found in children between ages 2 and 10.
- Usually solitary and benign (juvenile polyps), but may bleed, prolapse through the anus, or cause discomfort.
Although not typically linked directly with kidney or bladder issues, persistent straining and abdominal discomfort may lead to urinary complaints in children, particularly in those with existing pediatric nephrology vulnerabilities.
Common Symptoms of Rectal Polyps
- Bright red blood in stool or on toilet paper
- Prolapse (a polyp hanging out of the anus during bowel movement)
- Straining while passing stool
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Mucus discharge from the rectum
- In some cases, indirect symptoms like:
- Bedwetting
- Daytime wetting
- Child urinary incontinence
- Foul-smelling urine
- Painful urination (dysuria)
These overlapping symptoms may be due to straining-related bladder pressure, or in rare syndromic cases, linked to combined gastrointestinal and urinary anomalies.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Juvenile polyps are the most common in children and are usually sporadic and non-cancerous.
- Family history of polyposis or colorectal conditions may increase risk.
- Chronic constipation and straining may contribute to polyp irritation or prolapse.
- In rare cases, genetic syndromes like Peutz-Jeghers syndrome or Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP) may be involved.
These children may also show signs of child nephrolithiasis, recurrent UTIs, or voiding dysfunction — requiring assessment by both gastroenterology and pediatric urology teams.
Diagnostic Evaluation
- Physical examination including digital rectal exam
- Anoscopy or proctoscopy to visualize the polyp
- Colonoscopy if multiple or suspicious polyps are suspected
- Stool test to confirm blood presence
- Urine analysis if the child has:
- Bedwetting
- Foul-smelling urine
- Painful urination or signs of pediatric UTI
In syndromic cases, abdominal ultrasound or advanced imaging may also be done to evaluate kidneys and urinary tract.
Treatment Options
Polypectomy (Polyp Removal)
- Done via colonoscopy or under short anesthesia
- Safe, minimally invasive, and usually same-day discharge
- Polyp is sent for biopsy to confirm benign nature
Managing Associated Symptoms
If your child also has urinary complaints, the following might be considered:
- Bladder training if dysfunctional voiding is present
- Pediatric nephrology consultation for UTIs, nephrolithiasis, or kidney infections
- Behavioral therapy for bedwetting or incontinence
An integrated approach involving both pediatric gastroenterology and urology ensures complete care.
When to See a Pediatric Urologist?
Consult a pediatric urologist in Nagpur if your child has:
- Persistent foul-smelling urine or bedwetting along with rectal symptoms
- Symptoms of child nephrolithiasis or recurrent urinary tract infections
- Daytime wetting, urgency, or burning urination
- Prolonged straining or prolapse that causes pressure on bladder control
Straining due to rectal polyps can worsen voiding dysfunction and bladder control issues, especially in younger children.
Why Pediatric Urology Matters in Rectal Polyp Cases
While rectal polyps are intestinal issues, overlapping symptoms like:
- Bedwetting
- Daytime wetting
- Foul-smelling urine
- Painful urination
- Urinary incontinence
require evaluation from a pediatric urology clinic for comprehensive diagnosis and treatment.
Combining gastroenterology and urology ensures that no underlying condition is missed.
Rectal polyps in children are usually benign and treatable, but they can cause stress, bleeding, and even secondary urinary issues. If your child shows signs of discomfort, straining, or has urinary symptoms like foul-smelling urine, bedwetting, or painful urination, a full pediatric evaluation is critical.
Visit a specialized pediatric urology and nephrology clinic in Nagpur — and consult experts like Dr. Sadashiv Bhole — to ensure your child gets the most accurate, compassionate, and complete care.
