Anal Cancer Symptoms
The following are possible symptoms of anal cancer, but may also be due to minor conditions. If you have any of these symptoms, please see your doctor.
- Rectal bleeding
- Anal itching that doesn’t go away or returns
- A lump in or near the anus
- Anal pain
- A mucus-like leakage from the anus
- A change in your bowel habits, either in frequency or size
- Swollen “glands” in your groin (which are actually enlarged lymph nodes, not glands)
Early detection of anal cancer is associated with an excellent survival rate. Follow the recommended screening tests for anal and colorectal cancer and be sure to contact your doctor if you have any anal or intestinal symptoms.
Diagnosis
The following tests and procedures may be used:
- Digital rectal examination An exam of the anus and rectum. The doctor or nurse inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the lower part of the rectum to feel for lumps or anything else that seems unusual.
- Anoscopy An exam of the anus and lower rectum using a short, lighted tube called an anoscope.
- Proctoscopy An exam of the rectum using a short, lighted tube called a proctoscope.
- Endo-anal or endorectal ultrasound A procedure in which an ultrasound transducer (probe) is inserted into the anus or rectum and used to form a picture of tissues called a sonogram.
- Biopsy The removal of cells or tissues so they can be viewed under a microscope by a pathologist to check for signs of cancer. If an abnormal area is seen during the anoscopy, a biopsy may be done at that time.
