Mast cell in colorectal polyps

ABSTRACT

This work was undertaken to quantify mast cells in order to investigate their role in determining the likelihood of malignant changes in colorectal polyps. The mean number of mast cells showed significant differences in various colonic disorders studied. On ultrastructure background, there was difference in mast cell character between non neolplastic and neoplastic polyps such as the degree of maturity and the intensity of chymase staining reaction. From this study we might speculate that mast cells may play a role in triggering the early phase of malignant changes in colonic polyps. Mast cells may be useful as marker of colorectal neoplasia. The mechanism of action of mast cells has not been yet elucidated