Anal Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment

Anal cancer exists in the anal, which is part of the gastrointestinal tract and is the end of the large intestine where wastes exit the body. This area is made up of several diverse cells, which can cause different types of anal cancer. Types of anal cancer include: Squamous Cell Carcinoma, Cloacogenic Carcinoma, Adenocarcinoma, Basal Cell Carcinoma, and Melanoma. While all of these cancers originate in the anal area, the cancer can spread to other parts of the body.

Anal cancer can be diagnosed by digital rectal exams and anal pap tests; however, most individuals diagnosed with anal cancer are diagnosed after abnormal symptoms begin to occur. Symptoms of anal cancer include: rectal bleeding, rectal itching, anal area pain, change in stool size, abnormal anal discharge, and swollen lymph nodes in anal area.

Treatment of anal cancer is available and cure is possible depending on the stage of the anal cancer. Treatment of Stage 0, I, and II Anal Cancer will first begin with removal of cancerous growths in the anal area. If removing these growths will harm the anal area, radiation and chemotherapy may be effective in curing anal cancer at these early stages. Treatment and cure of anal cancer is difficult at Stages IIIA and IIIB, but can include additional radiation and surgery to remove the cancer.

For reasons unknown, anal cancer is on the rise. The general public, until now, has given little attention this rare form of cancer. Hollywood actress Farrah Fawcett’s public battle with anal cancer has single handily brought forth the much needed public awareness. Fawcett’s documentary, “Farrah’s Story”, had nearly 9 million viewers when it aired on NBC. The documentary was a video diary of Fawcett’s battle with anal cancer. A second documentary is already in the making.