Anal Cancer (Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Anus)

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What is Anal Cancer?

The 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:

Smoking.

HIV

Lowered immunity.

Increased sexual activity.

Fistulas (abnormal openings).

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.

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