Summary

• The most common type is squamous cell carcinoma.
• Associated with HPV infection and common in men who have sex with men and in immunosuppressed patients, especially those who are HIV-positive.
• Presenting symptoms are typically bleeding and anal pain.
• The cure rate is high (75% to 90%).
• Most patients are cured without a colostomy.
• Standard treatment for anal cancer is fluorouracil/mitomycin plus radiotherapy.
• More intensive chemotherapy and radiation has not improved results.