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Juvenile polyp — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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ModerateGIJuvenile polypRACP Paediatrics

A 3-year-old presents with intermittent painless bright red rectal bleeding mixed in with stool for the past month. The child is well and growing normally. There is no history of diarrhoea or constipation. Examination is unremarkable. What is the most likely cause?

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Correct answer: C — Juvenile polyp

Painless intermittent bright red rectal bleeding in a well preschool-aged child is most commonly caused by a juvenile (retention) polyp. These are benign hamartomatous polyps, usually solitary, and located in the rectosigmoid. Colonoscopy with polypectomy is diagnostic and therapeutic.

Reference: RCH Melbourne – 2023 – GI Bleeding CPG; RACP Paediatric Curriculum – Gastroenterology