In fact, anal cancer symptoms may not be present in any patients. These symptoms can occur in up to 20 percent of individuals who are diagnosed with anal cancer. In these cases, treatment may involve surgery. For patients who have no other symptoms, a biopsy can be the next step. Surgical removal of the tumor will require the patient to undergo an anal resection.
The most common type of anal cancer is squamous cell carcinoma. This type of cancer starts in the squamous cells lining the anal canal and anal margin. It is more likely to spread to the deeper layers of the anal canal. Another type is called adenocarcinoma. This type of cancer begins in the glands in the anal area, or in the tissue lining the portion of the anus near the rectum. Other forms of anal malignancy include basal cell carcinoma and malignant melanomas.
Anal cancer treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. However, there are many side effects of these treatments. It can take up to a year for a patient to recover from treatment, which is why early detection is so important. While no treatment option is 100 percent effective, early detection can help patients lead a relatively normal life. The National Institutes of Health estimates a five-year survival rate of anal cancer patients with localized disease.
Treatment for anal cancer varies depending on the stage of the disease. If the tumour is two centimetres or smaller, it is considered stage I. A tumour that is larger than 2cm is classified as stage II. A tumor that has spread to the lymph nodes near or in the rectum is considered stage IIIA. In rare cases, the tumor has spread to distant organs and may require a colostomy.
Anal cancer is usually diagnosed through a series of tests. A doctor can confirm the symptoms by performing a biopsy. A biopsy is a vital part of a diagnosis, and the doctor will also be able to perform a few other tests to confirm the diagnosis. This can allow the physician to determine the cause of the symptoms and provide the best treatment options for the patient. Anal cancer can also spread to the lymph nodes and liver, so early detection is crucial to ensure a cure.
In addition to symptoms, anal cancer may spread to other organs. Around 15-30% of patients will have cancer spread to lymph nodes. In these cases, treatment may focus on a specific organ or several different treatments. The treatment for anal cancer varies depending on its stage and its location. The most common treatment for anal cancer is chemoradiation, and it can be effective without hospitalization. This treatment is a great option for patients who are diagnosed with anal melanoma.
