The management of anal carcinoma

In a 20-year survey of anal carcinoma at Groote Schuur Hospital 55 cases were studied retrospectively. Patients of mixed race with anal margin carcinoma had a median age 29 years below that of Whites with anal margin carcinoma. Patients in these two groups with anal canal carcinoma had the same median age. Anal margin tumours were smaller than anal canal tumours at presentation and had a substantially better 5-year survival rate. The approach to treatment of these conditions is outlined.