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Anal Cancer

Anal Cancer Doctor in Kolkata
Home / Treatment / Gastrointestinal Cancer / Anal Cancer

Anal Cancer

Home / Treatment / Gastrointestinal Cancer / Anal Cancer
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Anal Cancer Doctor in Kolkata

Anal cancer is a rare type of cancer that occurs in the tissues or lining of the anal canal. When detected early and treated promptly, anal cancer is often curable by doctors. Although rare, cases of anal cancer are rising, making awareness and early diagnosis important for effective treatment. Vaccination against HPV can help reduce the risk of developing anal cancer. The anal oncologist in Kolkata will be able to guide you through the diagnosis and treatment of this condition.
Call - +919830474217
Symptoms of Anal Cancer

Symptoms of Anal Cancer

Anal cancer symptoms may feel like common issues like a persistent itch in your anus. Other symptoms might include:

  • Rectal bleeding, especially during bowel movements
  • A lump or mass (An anal cancer lump can appear at the anal opening)
  • Pain
  • Observing a change in your bowel movements, such as the frequency or consistency of your stools (poop)
  • Leaking stool
  • Feeling like you constantly need to poop

In case you happen to experience any of these symptoms, consult the anal oncologist in Kolkata.

Causes of Anal Cancer

Several factors can increase the risk of developing anal cancer, including:

Exposure to human papillomavirus (HPV)

HPV is a common virus spread through sexual contact. While it often causes no issues and clears up on its own, in some cases, it can lead to cell changes that may result in various cancers, including anal cancer.

Multiple sexual partners

The more sexual partners you or your partner have, the higher the risk of acquiring HPV, which increases the risk of anal cancer.

Receptive anal sex

Engaging in anal sex increases the likelihood of developing anal cancer.

Smoking

Smoking is linked to a higher risk of anal cancer.

History of cancer

Individuals who have had cervical, vulvar, or vaginal cancer are at higher risk of developing anal cancer.

Weakened immune system

A compromised immune system, whether due to medications (such as those taken after an organ transplant) or illnesses like HIV, can raise the risk of anal cancer.
Causes of Anal Cancer

Stages of Anal Cancer

Anal cancer is classified into stages based on the size of the tumour, its spread to nearby tissues, and whether it has metastasized to other parts of the body. The stages are as follows:

Stage 0 (Carcinoma in Situ)

Abnormal cells are found in the lining of the anus but haven’t spread into deeper layers or nearby tissues. These cells may develop into cancer if untreated.

Stage I

The cancer is confined to the anus and is 2 centimetres (cm) or smaller in size. It has not spread to nearby lymph nodes or other areas.

Stage II

Divided into two subgroups:

  • Stage IIA:

    The tumour is larger than 2 cm but less than 5 cm, with no spread to lymph nodes or distant sites.

  • Stage IIB:

    The tumour is larger than 5 cm but still hasn’t spread to lymph nodes or distant sites.

Stage III

This stage is split into three subcategories:

  • Stage IIIA:

    The tumour is smaller than 5 cm and has spread to nearby lymph nodes but not to distant organs.

  • Stage IIIB:

    The tumour is larger than 5 cm and has spread to nearby lymph nodes or to organs near the anus, like the bladder, prostate, or vagina.

  • Stage IIIC:

    The tumour may be of any size and has spread to nearby lymph nodes and organs around the anus.

Stage IV

The cancer has spread to distant parts of the body, such as the liver or lungs (metastasis), regardless of the size of the tumour or lymph node involvement.

Diagnosis of Anal Cancer

Diagnosis of Anal Cancer

Screening tests for anal cancer may include:

Anal Pap test

The doctor collects cells from the anal canal using a swab. These cells are then analysed in a lab to detect cancerous cells or those that may become cancerous.

Anal HPV test

This test involves collecting cells from the anal canal to check for infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), which is linked to anal cancer.

Digital rectal exam

The doctor inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the anus to feel the anal canal and rectum for abnormal growths or other signs of cancer.

Treatments of Anal Cancer

Anal cancer treatment varies based on the type and stage of the cancer but may include:

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is often combined with radiation therapy as the initial treatment for anal cancer. This combination is effective in many cases.

Radiation Therapy

  • External beam radiation therapy (EBRT):

    This method uses radiation from outside the body to target the cancer. Types of EBRT include:

    • Intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT):

      Delivers multiple beams of varying strengths to target the tumour precisely.

    • Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT):

      Focuses on small tumours with minimal impact on nearby healthy tissue.

    • Three-dimensional conformal radiation therapy (3D-CRT):

      Creates a detailed, 3D image of the tumour to guide the radiation.

    • Brachytherapy:

      An internal form of radiation therapy where radioactive material is placed close to or inside the tumour.

The anal oncologist in Kolkata offers the most suitable treatment based on your condition.
Call - +919830474217
Treatments of Anal Cancer

Frequently Asked Questions

How is anal cancer in women different?

While the symptoms and treatment of anal cancer are similar for both men and women, women with a history of cervical, vulvar, or vaginal cancer are at a higher risk of developing anal cancer. Additionally, human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, which is linked to both cervical and anal cancers, is a common risk factor in women. Regular screening for HPV and abnormal cell changes is particularly important for women at increased risk.

What is the prognosis for anal cancer?

The prognosis for anal cancer depends on the stage at diagnosis. If detected early, anal cancer is often curable with a combination of chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Can anal cancer be prevented?

While not all cases can be prevented, certain steps can reduce the risk of anal cancer. These include receiving the HPV vaccine, practising safe sex to limit exposure to HPV, avoiding smoking, and regularly undergoing screening if you are at high risk, such as having a history of cervical or other HPV-related cancers.

How does anal cancer affect daily life?

The impact of anal cancer on daily life varies depending on the stage and treatment. During treatment, patients may experience side effects like fatigue, changes in bowel movements, and skin irritation. Emotional and psychological support may be needed to cope with these challenges. Many people are able to return to their regular activities after completing treatment.

What is the survival rate for anal cancer?

The survival rate for anal cancer depends on its stage at diagnosis. Early-stage anal cancer has a high survival rate, with over 80% of patients surviving five years or more.