Anal Cancer

Overview

Anal cancer is rare and only accounts for less than 2% of all large bowel cancers. Females and the older age group of average 60 years old are more likely to be at risk of anal cancer. It is also strongly associated with individuals infected by Human Papilloma Virus chronically.

Signs and Symptoms

Pain pressure around the anus, Bleeding from the anus, Mass at the anus, Pruritus around the anus, Discharge from the anus, Fecal incontinence

Common Causes

Genetic mutation of the normal cells around anus into abnormal cells.

Risk Factors

Infection with human papillomavirus, Having many sexual partners, Anal intercourse, Age more than 50 years, Anal fistulas, Smoking, History of cancer, Drugs or conditions that suppress the immune system

Investigation Techniques

Physical examination and digital per rectal examination, Anoscopy, Proctoscopy, Endorectal ultrasound, Tissue biopsy, Computed tomography (CT) scan, Chest X-ray, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), Positron emission tomography (PET)

Treatment and Prevention

Combined chemotherapy and radiation(CMT-combined modality therapy), Surgery: local excision is helpful in early stages; radical surgery is indicated for persistent and recurrent disease following CMT; defunctioning stoma may be indicated for those in whom treatment and disease regression is associated with radionecrosis, incontinence or fistula; patients with local disease relapse may need radical abdominoperineal resection, Palliative care