Diseases
anal carcinoma
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Anal cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the anus. Most anal cancers are related to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Signs of anal cancer include bleeding from the anus or rectum or a lump near the anus.
Symptoms
- bleeding from the anus or rectum
- pain in the area of the anus
- a mass or growth in the anal canal
- anal itching
Causes
- anal cancer forms when a genetic mutation turns normal, healthy cells into abnormal cells. healthy cells grow and multiply at a set rate, eventually dying at a set time.
Risk factors
- older age. most cases of anal cancer occur in people age 50 and older.
- many sexual partners. people who have many sexual partners over their lifetimes
- anal sex. people who engage in receptive anal sex have an increased risk of anal
Diagnosis
- examining your anal canal and rectum for abnormalities.
- visually inspecting your anal canal and rectum.
- taking sound wave pictures (ultrasound) of your anal canal.
- removing a sample of tissue for laboratory testing
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is anal carcinoma?
Anal cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the anus. Most anal cancers are related to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Signs of anal cancer include bleeding from the anus or rectum or a lump near the anus.
What are the symptoms of anal carcinoma?
bleeding from the anus or rectum, pain in the area of the anus, a mass or growth in the anal canal, anal itching
What causes anal carcinoma?
anal cancer forms when a genetic mutation turns normal, healthy cells into abnormal cells. healthy cells grow and multiply at a set rate, eventually dying at a set time.
Which medicines are used for anal carcinoma?
mitomycin
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