Diagnosis of Anal Cancer
Anal cancer is often detected early due to its location, which allows doctors to easily see or feel tumors. Moreover, the uncomfortable or painful symptoms prompt patients to seek medical advice. Doctors can diagnose anal cancer through the following steps:
- Physical Examination: A comprehensive evaluation of the patient’s overall health.
- Medical History: Gathering detailed information about the patient’s medical background and discussing their symptoms.
- Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A procedure where the doctor manually examines the inside of the anus to check for any abnormalities or lumps.
- Imaging Tests: These may include an anoscopy, an examination of the anus and rectum, or an internal ultrasound.
- Biopsy: A tissue sample from the anus is taken for laboratory analysis.
If anal cancer is confirmed, additional imaging tests, such as a CT scan, MRI, or PET scan, may be ordered to determine the stage and extent of cancer spread.
Treatment of Anal Cancer
Treatment for anal cancer depends on several factors, including the tumor size, the cancer stage, its spread, and the patient’s general health. The earlier the diagnosis, the higher the chances of successful treatment. The primary treatment methods include:
