Pre-cancerous lesions of Anal Canal
Screening for Anal Canal Cancer or precancerous lesions
The screening is done by either swab cytology of the anal canal or with the instrument which is used for colposcopy (high powered microscope)
Anal Canal Cytology
Technique of anal Cytology for collecting the specimen
The goal of anal cytology is to identify patients with cellular changes in the epithelial cells that line the anal canal; any patients with atypia are then referred to undergo high-resolution anoscopy. No specific preparation is necessary before anal cytology, though patients should be instructed to refrain from receptive anal sex and enemas for 24 hours before testing. If a digital rectal examination is performed in conjunction with anal cytology, the cytologic sample must be obtained before lubrication is introduced into the anal canal. The standard technique used in obtaining anal cytologic specimens involves inserting a water-moistened Dacron swab into the anal canal to above the squamocolumnar transition zone, approximately 2 cm (1 inch) from the anal verge. While mild external pressure is applied to the anal wall, the swab is gently manipulated in a craniocaudal and circular motion within the canal. After several rotations, the swab should be withdrawn and immediately immersed in methanol-based preservative-transport solution.
Anoscopy by high powered microscope (Anoscope / colposcope) for screening for intra-epithelial tumors of anal canal
The patient is put in jack knife position to expose anal canal. The anal canal is opened by inserting a Anal retractor (Czerny rectal speculum)
The anal canal is then screened segment by segment. The anal skin is treated with acetic acid 3% to 5% to see any aceto-white lesions and then treated with Lugol's iodine. Any area that does not take up the iodine is suspcious area and biopsy is taken from that area.
Anal Canal Cancer
Symptoms of Anal Canal Cancer
- Peri-anal / anal itching - Frequent itching in peri-anal area
- anal or peri-anal pain - if there is pain or tenderness in or around anal area or in anal canal
- Bleeding per rectum (bleeding PR) - Frequent anal bleeding during passing of feces or even without motion
- Feeling of hardened area or lump close the rectal opening
- offensive anal discharge or smelly discharge
- altered or Improper bowel movements
Source: https://instiks.com/6-warning-signs-of-anal-cancer-nobody-want-to-talk-about/
Source: https://instiks.com/6-warning-signs-of-anal-cancer-nobody-want-to-talk-about/
Source: https://instiks.com/6-warning-signs-of-anal-cancer-nobody-want-to-talk-about/
Source: https://instiks.com/6-warning-signs-of-anal-cancer-nobody-want-to-talk-about/