the clinical problem of small intestine polyps in Gardner's syndrome

On the basis of their experience, though limited, and of an extensive review of the literature, the Authors discuss some of the controversial aspects of polyposis of small intestine in familial adenomatous polyposis/ Gardner's syndrome. In particular, on the basis of a greater evidence of an adenoma-carcinoma sequence at the duodenal level, they emphasize the importance of follow-up protocols in order to define those parameters which may be used to indicate extensive surgical procedures. When jejuno-ileal polypoid lesions are found in colectomized patients, it seems possible to recommend a conservative approach, although the pathogenetic mechanisms and the biological behaviour of such lesions remain still obscure.