Anal Cancer is a rare type of cancer that affects the anus, which is the opening at the end of the digestive tract.
Types:
1. Squamous cell carcinoma (most common)
2. Adenocarcinoma
3. Melanoma (rare)
Causes and Risk Factors:
1. Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
2. Anal sex
3. Smoking
4. Weakened immune system (HIV/AIDS)
5. Age (increased risk after 50)
Symptoms:
1. Rectal bleeding
2. Pain or discomfort during bowel movements
3. Itching or discharge from the anus
4. Narrowing of stool
5. Abdominal pain
Diagnosis:
1. Physical exam
2. Digital rectal exam (DRE)
3. Anoscopy
4. Biopsy
5. Imaging tests (CT, MRI, PET)
Treatment:
1. Radiation therapy
2. Chemotherapy
3. Surgery (abdominoperineal resection, APR)
4. Combined modality therapy (radiation, chemotherapy, surgery)
Prognosis:
Depends on the stage and location of the cancer. Early detection and treatment improve outcomes.
This article is for information purpose only. Please consult your doctor for the treatment.