Anal Cancer Treated at Karmanos

What is anal cancer?

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.

What are the risk factors for anal cancer?

Risk factors for anal cancer include the following:

• Being infected with human papillomavirus (HPV).
• Having a condition or disease that causes a weakened immune system, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or an organ transplant.
• Having a personal history of vulvar, vaginal, or cervical cancers.
• Having many sexual partners.
• Having receptive anal intercourse (anal sex).
• Smoking cigarettes.

What are the signs and symptoms of anal cancer?

Signs of anal cancer include bleeding from the anus or rectum or a lump near the anus. These and other signs and symptoms may be caused by anal cancer or by other conditions. Check with your doctor if you have any of the following:

• Bleeding from the anus or rectum.
• A lump near the anus.
• Pain or pressure in the area around the anus.
• Itching or discharge from the anus.
• A change in bowel habits.

What are the treatments for anal cancer?

The three standard treatments used include surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. New treatment options are also being studied in clinical trials.

Information includes about anal cancer, causes, risk factors, diagnosis and treatment.