Polyps refer to the abnormal tissue growths, which project out of the mucous membrane. These can be attached to the mucous membrane with or without a stalk. Common sites where polyps are generally found include cervix, colon, nose, small intestine, stomach, sinuses, urinary bladder and uterus. While majority of polyps are harmless, some of them can be malignant as well.

The different types of polyps include nasal polyps, cervical polyps, colorectal polyps, and endometrial polyps. The risk of polyps developing into malignant cancer is highest in the case of polyps of the colon.

The nasal polyps can be detected with nasal endoscopy, imaging studies and allergy tests. Colonoscopy is primarily diagnosed with colorectal polyps, while endometrial polyps are diagnosed with ultrasound.