Overview
Anal cancer is a growth of cells that starts in the anal canal. The anal canal is a short tube at the end of rectum. Stool passes through the anal canal as it leaves the body.
Anal cancer can cause symptoms such as rectal bleeding, blood in the stool and anal pain. As it grows, it might cause a growth or lump. Sometimes these symptoms might be mistaken for hemorrhoids.
In the past, most people with anal cancer had surgery to remove the cancer. Often this operation involved making a new way for waste to leave the body. Today, most anal cancer treatment involves chemotherapy and radiation therapy. With this approach, surgery might not be needed.
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Symptoms
Anal cancer signs and symptoms include:
- Bleeding from the anus or rectum.
- Blood in the stool.
- Pain in the area of the anus.
- A mass or growth in the anal canal.
- Anal itching.
- Having to go to the bathroom more often.
When to see a doctor
Make an appointment with a doctor or other healthcare professional if you have any symptoms that worry you.
