Anal carcinoma: a 14 year experience

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Anal carcinoma is a rare malignancy, accounting for 2.1% of colon and rectum cancers between 1982-1995.
• The study focuses on clinical and pathological characteristics of anal carcinoma patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the clinical and pathological characteristics of anal carcinoma.
• To assess treatment outcomes and survival rates for anal carcinoma patients.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 20 anal carcinoma patients treated from 1982 to 1995.
• Evaluation of treatment modalities including surgery (radical and palliative) and radiotherapy.

Main Results:

• The mean age of patients was 74 years, with a female to male ratio of 1.5:1.
• Squamous cell and basaloid carcinomas were the predominant histological types, primarily affecting the anal canal (80%).
• Radical surgery showed improved survival (4/5 alive after 5 years) compared to palliative surgery (none survived 30 months). Radiotherapy was effective in two patients.

Conclusions:

• Anal carcinoma is often diagnosed at advanced stages.
• Treatment success varies, with radical surgery and radiotherapy demonstrating better outcomes than palliative surgery.
• Radiotherapy, with or without chemotherapy, is a viable alternative for anal carcinoma treatment.