Anal Cancer
(Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Anus)
What is Anal CancerThe main type of anal cancer is Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Anus.
The anus is a canal that connects the lower part of the large intestine (rectum) to the outside of the body. It allows the faeces to pass from the large intestine during a bowel movement. Faeces are formed in the longest part of the large intestine (colon), stored in the rectum, and pass through the anus. Squamous cell carcinoma of the anus forms from the lining of the anal canal. They are the most common type of anal cancer.
Who gets Anal Cancer?
Anal cancer is fairly rare. In young people anal cancer is more common in men. The average age for anal cancer sufferers is 60 years of age.
Predisposing Factors
Many people believe anal cancer is caused by the Human Papilloma Virus. Predisposing factors include:
Progression
Anal cancer spreads by local invasion initially, and then via the lymphatics - with inguinal, pelvic, para-aortic and iliac nodes being the most common sites of early anal cancer spread.
Probable Outcomes
Anal cancer prognosis depends upon the size of the anal tumour, where the anal tumour is and whether it has spread to the lymph nodes.
How is Anal Cancer Diagnosed?
Signs of anal cancer are checked through routine blood tests for anaemia and infection.
How is Anal Cancer treated?
Anal cancer treatment depends upon the stage of the anal cancer and the level of local and extended involvement. Anal surgery is generally conducted, either local resection or an abdominoperineal resection.
Radiotherapy and chemotherapy are employed if the cancer is in any of the later stages.
Chemotherapy for anal cancer typically involves:
- Mitomycin C 10 mg/m2 IV day 1 only
- 5-Fluorouracil 800 mg/m2/day continuous infusion days 1-4 and 43-46
- Radiotherapy for anal cancer typically involves:
- Initial phase 4 week 36 Gy
- A 2 week break
- Second phase 1/2 to 2 weeks (varies) 14.4-18 Gy
(Some radiation oncologists do not have the break. In week 5, 5FU is infused)
Regimens Used in the Treatment of This Disease:
Drugs/Products Used in the Treatment of This Disease:
- Fluorouracil Injection BP
(Fluorouracil) - Mitomycin C Kyowa
(Mitomycin)
1 comment:
Anal cancer is found in rare case. It affects to both male and female. Those who are consented to anal intercourse and with with depleted immune systems are more prone to this cancer. One should avoid smoking. If anyone observes symptoms of it, should consult doctor immediately. For more details on Anal cancer, refer causes of anal cancer
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