Anal Cancer Treatment in Turkey

Anal cancer treatment in Turkey has gained attention due to the country’s advanced medical facilities and skilled healthcare professionals. While anal cancer is uncommon, it’s important for patients to understand its causes, symptoms, and treatment options when considering care in Turkey. This guide aims to provide a detailed overview of anal cancer and the treatment options available in Turkey, helping to answer common questions and concerns.

Understanding Anal Cancer

Anal cancer, also known as carcinoma of the anal canal, develops in the tissues of the anus or the lining of the anal canal. It’s less common than other forms of cancer but can often be cured if detected early. Symptoms might include rectal bleeding and persistent anal itching, among others.

Types of Anal Cancer

There are primarily two types of anal cancer:

• Squamous Cell Carcinoma: The most common type, distinct from skin cancer despite starting in the top layer of the skin.
• Adenocarcinoma: Less common and involves the glands.

Symptoms and Causes of Anal Cancer

What are the Symptoms of Anal Cancer?

Symptoms might be mistaken for common ailments but may include:

• Persistent itch in the anus
• Rectal bleeding during bowel movements
• A noticeable lump near the anal opening
• Pain or discomfort
• Changes in bowel movements or stool consistency

What Causes Anal Cancer?

The exact cause of anal cancer remains unclear, but certain factors significantly increase the risk. These include the human papillomavirus (HPV), HIV, and smoking. Additional risk factors are age, a weakened immune system, and specific sexual practices, all of which can contribute to the likelihood of developing the disease.

Diagnosis of Anal Cancer

Anal cancer diagnosis involves several procedures:

• Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A doctor feels for abnormalities using a gloved finger.
• Anoscopy: A scope examines the anal canal for any irregularities.
• Imaging Tests: Ultrasounds, MRIs, or CT scans help locate and size the cancer.
• Biopsy: Tissue samples are taken to confirm the presence of cancer cells.

Staging of Anal Cancer

Staging of Anal Cancer

Anal cancer is staged from 1 to 4, with higher numbers indicating more advanced spread beyond the anal canal.

Main Treatments for Anal Cancer in Turkey

Chemoradiation (Chemoradiotherapy)

• Chemoradiation is the combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, designed to work synergistically to kill cancer cells more effectively.
• Chemotherapy utilizes powerful drugs to target and destroy cancer cells. In anal cancer treatment, it often involves a combination of medications administered intravenously or in pill form.
• Radiotherapy, on the other hand, involves using high-energy radiation. This can come from different sources such as X-rays or protons. The radiation is targeted precisely at the cancer cells to minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

Chemoradiation is often the first line of treatment for anal cancer as it can effectively reduce tumour size and, in many cases, negate the need for surgical intervention.

Surgery

Surgical intervention is considered when:

• Tumours are small: If the cancer is in its early stages and localized, surgery may be done to remove the tumour along with some surrounding healthy tissue to ensure complete cancer cell removal. This surgery is less invasive and aims to preserve the anal sphincter muscles to maintain normal bowel function.
• Chemoradiation is insufficient: If the cancer persists after chemoradiation, more extensive surgery may be required, such as an abdominoperineal resection (APR). This involves removing the anus, rectum, and part of the colon, followed by the creation of a stoma for bowel movements.

Treatments for Advanced or Metastatic Anal Cancer

In cases where cancer has spread to other parts of the body, more intensive treatments might be necessary:

Chemotherapy Alone: This systemic treatment can help control cancer spread throughout the body.

• Immunotherapy: A cutting-edge treatment that assists the immune system in recognizing and attacking cancer cells. It is typically used in specific advanced cases where traditional approaches may not be viable.

Conclusion

Turkey’s offerings in anal cancer treatment are extensive, leveraging modern practices in surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. Patients benefit from the expertise found at institutions such as the Avicenna International Hospital. For more detailed information about treatment options or to schedule a consultation, do not hesitate to contact us.