Overview
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the anal margin is the most common histologic form of anal cancer 1. Management requires a multidisciplinary approach involving gastroenterology, medical oncology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and radiology 1.Diagnosis
Biopsy-proven evidence of locally recurrent or persistent disease after primary treatment may require surgical treatment 1.Management
Primary treatment for anal canal cancer, which is similar to perianal cancer, includes chemoradiation in most cases 1.
Systemic therapy is generally recommended for extrapelvic metastatic disease 1.
Follow-up clinical evaluations are recommended for all patients with anal carcinoma, as additional curative-intent treatment is possible 1.Key Recommendations
A multidisciplinary approach is necessary for managing squamous cell anal carcinoma 1. (Evidence: Expert opinion)
Primary treatment for anal canal cancer and perianal cancer typically includes chemoradiation 1. (Evidence: Expert opinion)
Systemic therapy should be considered for extrapelvic metastatic disease 1. (Evidence: Expert opinion)
Follow-up clinical evaluations are recommended for all patients with anal carcinoma to assess for potential additional curative-intent treatment 1. (Evidence: Expert opinion)References
1 Benson AB, Venook AP, Al-Hawary MM, Azad N, Chen YJ, Ciombor KK et al.. Anal Carcinoma, Version 2.2023, NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology. Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network : JNCCN 2023. link