Anal Cancer

The anus, which is also known as the “anal canal” is the last part of the bowel which connects the lower end of the rectum with the outside of the body and allows the excretion of faeces. It is about 3 cm long and is surrounded by muscles, known as the anal sphincter which keeps it tightly closed most of the time.

Anal cancers arise from the types of cells lining the anal canal, known as “squamous cell carcinomas”. Cells that are becoming malignant but have not yet broken through the surface layer are referred to as “anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN)”, “high grade dysplasia”, “Bowens Disease” or “carcinoma in-situ”.

Anal cancer is very rare and affects a slightly more women than men. The main risk factor for anal cancer is infection from the human papilloma virus (HPV). Other factors include smoking and impaired immunity from causes such as HIV or immune suppressing drugs following organ transplant. The risk of contracting the disease increases with age.

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Symptoms of an Anal Cancer

As with most forms of cancer, early detection is associated with a high survival rate. Some of the symptoms of anal cancer are:

  • Bleeding
  • Pain and persistent irritation/ itching around the anus
  • Change in bowel habit - more frequent/ less frequent and having to strain to pass stools
  • A lump at the anus
  • A discharge from the anus

These symptoms are common and on most occasions are not due to an underlying serious problem.

If you suffer from such symptoms you should always seek medical advice.

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How is an anal cancer investigated?

When you are seen in clinic the consultant will take a full history and carry out a clinical examination. Usually this will involve a rigid sigmoidoscopy and sometimes a proctoscopy as well.

An examination under anaesthetic with a biopsy is usually required to confirm the diagnosis.

A CT scan and an MRI scan are usually performed to fully assess the disease.

Sometimes a PET scan may be required if there are concerns about the spread of the disease.

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Anal Cancer Treatment

If the cancer is diagnosed in its early stages as a very small lump on the edge of the anus, surgical excision alone can also be an effective treatment for anal cancer without causing any significant damage to the anal sphincter muscles.

The most common treatment given for anal cancer is a combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy (known as synchronous chemoradiotherapy).

If an anal cancer is particularly large a colostomy may be required before starting chemoradiotherapy treatment.

In some cases this can be reversed after the treatment has been completed.

If the chemoradiotherapy is not successful in eradicating the cancer, surgery may be required. The type of surgery needed depends upon the type and size of the cancer, and whether it has spread to other parts of the body. This will often require surgery to remove the whole anus and a will result in a permanent colostomy.

Because anal cancer is rare the treatment has been concentrated to recognised highly specialist teams. The team at the Birmingham Bowel Clinic is a recognised designated team with over 10 years experience in treating the disease.

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Anal Cancer Frequently Asked Questions

Common symptoms include bleeding from the anus, pain or pressure around the anus, a lump, itching, discharge and changes in bowel habits. These symptoms can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions, such as haemorrhoids.
Anal cancer is often associated with persistent infection with high-risk types of human papillomavirus (HPV). Other risk factors include smoking, a weakened immune system and a history of cervical, vaginal or vulval cancer.
Anal cancer may appear as a lump, firm bump, ulcer or sore around the anus. However, it may not cause visible changes in the early stages, so persistent symptoms should be assessed by a medical professional.
Diagnosis may involve a physical examination, a digital rectal examination, an examination of the anal canal using an anoscope and a biopsy to check for cancerous cells. Further scans may be used to assess whether the cancer has spread.
Yes. Treatment depends on the type, stage and location of the cancer. It commonly involves a combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Surgery may be recommended in certain cases, including when cancer persists or returns after initial treatment.
Yes. Anal cancer can cause symptoms similar to haemorrhoids, including bleeding, itching, pain and lumps. If symptoms persist, worsen or involve an unexplained lump, arrange an appointment with your GP for assessment.

What are the next steps?

If you think you have this condition or any of these symptoms you will need to seek medical advice.

For more information or to make an appointment:

If you have private medical care or wish to pay to see a consultant:

Take this factsheet along to your own GP and request a referral to one of our consultants.

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