Anal Cancer AIN

Being diagnosed with anal cancer can be scary and intimidating. Here at Colorectal Surgery Associates, we focus on treating your condition with the most cutting-edge standard of care so that you experience as few functional life changes as possible. Our surgeons perform a high volume of robotic anal cancer surgery, making us one of the most experienced practices in the region.

What Causes Anal Cancer?
Anal cancer occurs when healthy cells in the anus develop genetic mutations and grow uncontrollably. It is closely linked to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Commonly anal cancers are squamous cell cancers (similar to skin cancer). Other risk factors include:

• Anal Intraepithelial Neoplasia (AIN)
• Multiple sexual partners
• Receiving anal intercourse
• Smoking
• History of other cancers
• Conditions or medications that weaken the immune system
• Older age

Symptoms
Symptoms may include:

• Bleeding from the anus
• Itching or discharge
• A lump near the anus
• Redness, swelling, or pain in the anal area

Diagnosis
A colorectal specialist will perform a physical exam and a digital rectal exam. If cancer is suspected, additional tests may include a biopsy, sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, and imaging studies such as CT, MRI, PET scan to check for spread.

Treatment
Treatment depends on the stage of the cancer and overall health. The majority of anal cancers can be treated without surgery, using chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Surgery is generally reserved for cases that do not respond to these treatments or for recurrent tumors.

Radiation Therapy – Using high-dose X-rays to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumors.

Chemotherapy – Medicines used to kill fast-growing cells, including cancer cells and some normal cells. Chemotherapy may be given together with radiation.

Early diagnosis is important for effective treatment and improved outcomes.