Pathophysiology
Clinical meaning
Endometrial polyps are localized overgrowths of the endometrial lining (the inner lining of the uterus) that project into the uterine cavity. They are composed of endometrial glands, stroma, and blood vessels. Polyps develop when areas of the endometrium respond excessively to estrogen stimulation, causing focal overgrowth. They can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters and may be single or multiple. Most endometrial polyps are benign, but they commonly cause abnormal uterine bleeding - including intermenstrual bleeding, heavy menstrual bleeding, and postmenopausal bleeding. The risk of malignant transformation is low (approximately 1-3%) but increases in postmenopausal women, those on tamoxifen therapy, and those with larger polyps.