What is anal cancer?
The anus, also known as the anal canal, is the last part of the bowel, connecting the lower end of the rectum to the outside of the body. It is approximately 3 cm long and surrounded by muscles called the anal sphincter, which help control bowel movements.
Anal cancer develops when abnormal cells in the anal lining grow uncontrollably. The most common type is squamous cell carcinoma. When cancerous cells remain on the surface and have not yet invaded deeper layers, this is known as anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN), or high-grade dysplasia.
Anal cancer is rare but slightly more common in women than men. The primary risk factor for anal cancer is infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). Other risk factors include:
- Smoking
- Impaired immunity (such as HIV or immunosuppressive medication following an organ transplant)
- Ageing: the risk increases with age
Symptoms of anal cancer
Early detection significantly improves survival rates. Some of the common symptoms of anal cancer include:
- Bleeding from the anus
- Pain, irritation, or persistent itching around the anus
- Change in bowel habit
- A lump at the anus
- Unusual discharge from the anus
These symptoms are common and are often due to non-cancerous conditions, such as haemorrhoids or anal fissures. However, if you experience these symptoms, you should seek medical advice for further investigation.
How is anal cancer diagnosed?
Your consultant will:
- Take a full medical history and discuss your symptoms
- Perform a clinical examination, which may include:
- Rigid sigmoidoscopy – a short camera examination of the rectum and anal canal
- Proctoscopy – a closer examination of the anal canal
Further tests may be required to confirm the diagnosis:
- Examination under anaesthetic (EUA) – allows a detailed examination and biopsy of suspicious tissue
- PET scan – occasionally used if there are concerns about cancer spread
Treatment for anal cancer
The best treatment option depends on the size, location, and stage of the cancer. The main treatment options include:
Early-stage treatment
- If the tumour is small and located at the edge of the anus, surgical excision alone may be sufficient without affecting sphincter function
Primary treatment – chemoradiotherapy
- The most common treatment for anal cancer is a combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy (known as synchronous chemoradiotherapy)
- This is effective in preserving the function of the anal sphincter while eliminating cancer
Surgical options
- If the cancer is large, a colostomy (temporary or permanent) may be needed before starting chemoradiotherapy
- If chemoradiotherapy does not completely eradicate the cancer, surgery may be required
- Advanced cases may require removal of the entire anus, leading to a permanent colostomy
Why choose the Midlands Bowel Clinic for your care?
- Specialist expertise – Our team provides expert diagnosis and treatment for anal cancer
- Comprehensive care – From diagnosis to treatment and recovery, we provide expert support
- Access to cutting-edge treatments – We offer the latest advancements in cancer treatment
Contact us
If you have concerns about anal cancer symptoms, do not delay—book an appointment today at the Midlands Bowel Clinic for expert assessment and treatment.
