If you have noticed the symptoms of cancer in the anus, you should see a doctor immediately. In some cases, cancer in the anus is unrecognized, so it’s best to get a diagnosis as early as possible. Cancer in the anus symptoms may include:
In general, anal cancer affects older adults and women more than men. Its treatment depends on the type and stage of the cancer, but early detection has the best chances of a successful outcome. If you’re concerned about your anal cancer symptoms, download the Ada app to get a free, personalized diagnosis. It’s easy to get started, and you’ll be glad you did. It’s free and easy to use, so why wait? You might be surprised by what you find.
Cancer in the anus may be detected in its early stages, when it is located in the lower part of the anal canal. Your doctor can detect the disease by performing a digital anorectal examination or taking a sample of the tumor tissue for further analysis. In severe cases, your doctor may choose to perform surgery to remove the cancer or perform chemotherapy. However, if you don’t have symptoms of cancer in the anus, it’s still best to see a doctor to be safe.
While squamous cell carcinoma is the most common form of anal cancer, it can be treated differently depending on its stage. Adenocarcinoma, for example, develops in the glands that surround the anus. If the cancer grows to an advanced stage, it can spread to other parts of the body, interfering with normal bodily functions. In some cases, the cancer may be squamous cell carcinoma in situ (SCC), which is also known as Bowen’s disease.
In rare cases, cancer in the anus can be caused by other types of cancer. In most cases, cancer develops elsewhere in the body and metastasizes to the anal canal. In addition to the above causes, anal cancer can be caused by sexually transmitted infections, such as HPV. During sexual intercourse, HPV is found in 80 percent of the population. Most of the time, a person is never notified that they have an HPV infection, but a doctor can diagnose the condition if they have an infection.
The cause of anal cancer is not yet understood, but genetics are associated with increased risk. Some genes are associated with colorectal cancer, while others are associated with a higher risk of developing it. Some people also have a family history of colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps, making them more likely to develop the disease. However, genetic mutations are only a small part of rectal cancer cases. Genetic testing can help detect these rare inherited conditions.
Treatment options for cancer in the anus vary between patients. The primary treatment options are surgery and chemotherapy. In some cases, anal cancer may have returned following treatment. Depending on the stage of the cancer and its location, the type of surgery used will determine the treatment plan. For instance, resection is a surgical procedure that removes the affected tissue. This procedure is only possible if the cancer has not yet affected the anal sphincter. It is important to note, however, that this procedure is not recommended if the cancer has spread throughout the anal wall or the surrounding muscles.