Symptoms and treatment options will depend on the stage of the disease and whether or not it has spread. Early detection is crucial, as it increases the chances of a successful treatment outcome. Cancer cells in the anal area can be dangerous, spreading to other parts of the body and compromising their function. Consult your doctor as soon as you notice any changes in your anal area.
Various types of anal cancer are caused by HPV, which is a sexually transmitted disease. Other causes include cancer from another organ that spreads to the anus. In addition to cancer from the colon, benign tumours of the anus may be found. Skin tags, genital warts, and polyps are common examples of benign tumours in the anus. Granular cell tumours and Squamous Intraepithelial Neoplasia are precancerous.
There are several known causes of anal cancer, including HPV infection and the presence of multiple sex partners. Infection with HIV weakens the immune system, making it more susceptible to the development of anal cancer. Repeated anal intercourse and multiple sex partners are also known to increase the risk of anal cancer. People who smoke may also be at a greater risk. But, there are several ways to reduce your risk.
Some common symptoms of anal cancer include abdominal pain, fever, and recurrent bleeding. If you experience any of these symptoms, visit your doctor immediately. A doctor will be able to prescribe the proper treatment and determine whether the cancer is localized or has spread to other parts of the body. A biopsy can help your doctor diagnose the cancer, which will determine whether it’s spreading. A rectal ultrasound can also be used to diagnose anal cancer. The best thing to do is visit your doctor if you notice any changes in your anus. Ask about screening for anal cancer if you are at a high risk.
Radiation therapy is another treatment option. Radiation therapy kills cancer cells, but it can cause side effects. Consult with your doctor about how to manage the side effects of radiation therapy. Local resection is another option. It involves removing the tumor and surrounding tissue. This is usually an option for patients with small tumors. It is important to keep in mind that local resection has a lower success rate than radiation therapy.
Though anal cancer is rare, it does affect an estimated 4,000 people in the United States each year. About half of those affected are women. It is rarer than rectal cancer, but is increasing among people in some high-risk groups. As the number of people with anal cancer continues to rise, it is becoming more common. It accounts for 2.1% of all cancers in the digestive system. Anal cancer is highly treatable if detected in time.
Treatment for anal cancer will depend on the stage of the disease, the type of the tumour, and its spread. A combination of chemotherapy and surgery may be used. Surgical removal of the tumour will remove it while sparing the surrounding healthy tissue. Surgical resection is another option that may be used. If the cancer has not spread yet, it may be possible to remove the tumour without surgery. It is important to note that surgery can have unpleasant side effects, so it is important to seek medical advice.
