Can benign polyps cause occult blood in stool?

Yes, benign polyps can cause occult blood in stool. Occult blood in stool refers to the presence of blood in the stool that is not visible to the naked eye. It is usually detected through chemical tests or microscopic examination. Benign polyps, which are non-cancerous growths in the colon or rectum, can sometimes bleed and cause occult blood in stool. This bleeding can occur due to the fragility of the blood vessels within the polyps or due to the rubbing of the polyps against the intestinal wall. However, it is important to note that not all cases of occult blood in stool are caused by benign polyps. Other conditions, such as hemorrhoids, diverticular disease, inflammatory bowel diseases, and certain medications, can also cause occult blood in stool. Therefore, it is essential to undergo further evaluation, including colonoscopy, to determine the exact cause of occult blood in stool and to rule out any underlying medical conditions.