What does anal cancer look like. How is anal cancer different from hemorrhoids. What are the symptoms of anal cancer. When should you see a doctor for anal lumps. How is anal cancer diagnosed and treated.

Understanding Anal Cancer: A Closer Look at Symptoms and Appearance

Anal cancer is a relatively rare form of cancer that develops in the tissues of the anus. While it’s not as common as other types of colorectal cancers, it’s essential to be aware of its symptoms and appearance for early detection and treatment.

The American Cancer Society estimates that there will be approximately 9,760 new cases of anal cancer in the United States in 2023. Despite its rarity, understanding the signs and symptoms of this disease is crucial for timely intervention.

Can you visually identify anal cancer?

In most cases, a person cannot identify anal cancer by sight alone. However, there are some visible signs that may indicate the presence of anal cancer:

• Small, hard lumps just inside or outside the anus
• Painful sores around the anus that don’t heal
• Changes in the appearance of the anal area

It’s important to note that these visual cues are not definitive proof of anal cancer and may be associated with other conditions. A proper medical diagnosis is always necessary.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Anal Cancer

While visual identification of anal cancer can be challenging, there are several symptoms that may indicate its presence. Being aware of these symptoms can lead to earlier detection and treatment.

What are the common symptoms of anal cancer?

The symptoms of anal cancer can vary, but may include:

• Bleeding from the anus or rectum
• Pain or pressure in the anal area
• Persistent itching around the anus
• Unusual discharge from the anus
• Changes in bowel movements
• Swollen lymph nodes in the anal or groin area
• A feeling of fullness or a mass in the anal area

It’s crucial to remember that approximately 20% of individuals with anal cancer may not experience any symptoms at all. This underscores the importance of regular check-ups and screenings, especially for those at higher risk.

Differentiating Anal Cancer from Hemorrhoids

One of the challenges in identifying anal cancer is that its symptoms can be similar to those of more common conditions, particularly hemorrhoids. Understanding the differences between these conditions is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

How do anal cancer symptoms differ from hemorrhoid symptoms?

While both conditions can cause lumps and discomfort in the anal area, there are some key differences:

Symptom	Hemorrhoids	Anal Cancer
Lumps	Soft or hard, often painful when sitting	Usually hard, may not be painful
Bleeding	Bright red, usually after bowel movements	Can occur at any time, may be darker in color
Pain	Often relieved by warm baths or topical treatments	May be persistent and not respond to home remedies
Duration	Typically resolve within a few days to weeks	Symptoms persist or worsen over time

While these differences can provide some guidance, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis, especially if symptoms persist or worsen.

Other Causes of Anal Lumps: Beyond Cancer and Hemorrhoids

When discovering lumps in the anal area, it’s natural to be concerned about cancer. However, there are several other conditions that can cause similar symptoms. Understanding these can help alleviate unnecessary worry and guide appropriate medical care.

What other conditions can cause anal lumps?

Several benign conditions can result in lumps or growths around the anus:

1. Anal Polyps: Small, benign growths that can form in the anal canal. They affect approximately 20-30% of American adults.
2. Anal Warts: Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), these growths can appear just outside the anus or in the lower anal canal.
3. Skin Tags: Small, soft, skin-colored growths that are benign but can be removed if desired.
4. Anal Fissures: Small tears in the anal lining that can sometimes result in the formation of a lump if they spread downward.

While these conditions are generally less serious than anal cancer, some, like anal warts, can increase the risk of developing anal cancer in the future. Regular check-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider are essential for maintaining anal health.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Anal Symptoms

Given the variety of conditions that can affect the anal area, it’s important to know when to seek professional medical advice. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve outcomes for many anal conditions, including cancer.

When should you see a doctor for anal symptoms?

You should consult a healthcare professional if you experience:

• Persistent lumps or growths around the anus
• Rectal bleeding, especially if it’s dark or occurs frequently
• Changes in bowel habits that last more than a few weeks
• Persistent pain, itching, or discomfort in the anal area
• Unusual discharge from the anus
• Any combination of these symptoms that worsen over time

Remember, while these symptoms can be alarming, they don’t necessarily indicate cancer. However, professional evaluation is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Diagnosis and Screening for Anal Cancer

Early detection of anal cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Understanding the diagnostic process can help patients feel more prepared and less anxious when undergoing these important examinations.

How is anal cancer diagnosed?

The diagnosis of anal cancer typically involves several steps:

1. Physical Examination: The doctor will perform a thorough external and internal examination of the anal area.
2. Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): This involves the doctor inserting a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel for abnormalities.
3. Anoscopy: A hollow, lighted tube is inserted into the anus to examine the anal canal more closely.
4. Biopsy: If suspicious areas are found, a small tissue sample may be taken for laboratory analysis.
5. Imaging Tests: CT scans, MRI, or PET scans may be used to determine if the cancer has spread.

For individuals at higher risk of anal cancer, such as those with a history of HPV infection or certain autoimmune conditions, regular screening may be recommended even in the absence of symptoms.

Treatment Options for Anal Cancer

If anal cancer is diagnosed, there are several treatment options available. The choice of treatment depends on various factors, including the stage of the cancer, the patient’s overall health, and personal preferences.

What are the main treatment options for anal cancer?

The primary treatments for anal cancer include:

• Chemoradiation: A combination of chemotherapy and radiation therapy, often used as the first-line treatment for most anal cancers.
• Surgery: May be necessary for early-stage cancers or if chemoradiation is not effective.
• Immunotherapy: Newer treatments that help the body’s immune system fight cancer cells.
• Clinical Trials: Participation in research studies may provide access to new, potentially effective treatments.

The treatment journey is unique for each patient, and a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals will work together to develop the most appropriate treatment plan.

Prevention and Risk Reduction for Anal Cancer

While not all cases of anal cancer can be prevented, there are steps individuals can take to reduce their risk and promote overall anal health.

How can you reduce your risk of developing anal cancer?

Several strategies can help lower the risk of anal cancer:

• HPV Vaccination: The HPV vaccine can protect against the strains of the virus most commonly associated with anal cancer.
• Safe Sex Practices: Using condoms and dental dams can reduce the risk of HPV transmission.
• Regular Screenings: For those at higher risk, regular anal Pap smears may be recommended.
• Quitting Smoking: Tobacco use is a risk factor for many cancers, including anal cancer.
• Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle: A balanced diet, regular exercise, and limiting alcohol consumption can contribute to overall health and potentially reduce cancer risk.

By understanding the symptoms, appearance, and risk factors associated with anal cancer, individuals can take proactive steps towards early detection and prevention. Regular check-ups, open communication with healthcare providers, and a healthy lifestyle are key components in maintaining anal health and overall well-being.

Remember, while anal cancer is a serious condition, it is treatable, especially when caught early. If you have concerns about your anal health or notice any unusual symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice. Your health and peace of mind are worth the conversation.

What does anal cancer look like? Pictures and other symptoms

A person usually cannot identify anal cancer by sight. However, in some cases, people may develop small, hard lumps just inside and outside their anus.

The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates there will be approximately 9,760 new cases of anal cancer in the United States in 2023. They also say this particular disease is rarer than other colon or rectum cancers.

Often, a person cannot see anal cancer. However, in some cases, they may have hard, fleshy lumps just inside or outside the anus.

This article examines what anal cancer looks like, with pictures and a comparison with external hemorrhoids. Finally, it explores the symptoms of anal cancer, other reasons for lumps around the anus, and when to consult a doctor.

A person may not be able to identify anal cancer externally.

However, the ACS states that an individual may develop a lump or mass that can appear around and inside the opening of the anus. The United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) notes that these lumps are often small.

People may also develop a painful sore around the anus that does not heal.

Other associated symptoms

The National Cancer Institute states individuals may also experience the following symptoms as a result of these lumps:

• bleeding from the anus or rectum
• pain or pressure in the anus
• itching
• discharge

Additional possible symptoms of anal cancer include:

• changes in bowel movements, including:
  • needing to open the bowels more often or less frequently
  • straining more regularly
• narrowing of stool
• loss of bowel control or incontinence
• swollen lymph nodes in the anus or groin area
• a feeling of needing to open the bowels

However, approximately 20% of individuals with anal cancer do not experience any symptoms.

Learn more about rectal cancer symptoms.

In some cases, a person may mistake hemorrhoids for anal cancer, particularly external hemorrhoids. These often occur when there is too much pressure on the veins around the anus.

There are two different types of hemorrhoids:

• External: These form under the skin around the anus. A person with external hemorrhoids may have one or more lumps that feel itchy. They may also be painful, particularly when sitting. However, external hemorrhoid symptoms should disappear within a few days.
• Internal: These are lumps that form just inside the anus. They may cause bleeding from the rectum and a prolapse. Internal hemorrhoids can also prolapse. When this happens, the hemorrhoid falls through the anal opening, causing pain and discomfort.

The table below outlines some key differences between hemorrhoids and lumps relating to anal cancer:

	External hemorrhoids	Anal cancer
Cause	swollen and inflamed veins due to excess pressure	cells that grow out of control that may cause lumps
Symptoms	• lumps that can be hard or soft • bright red blood after passing stool • itching • pain • mucus in the underwear or on the toilet paper after passing stool • the sensation that a person still needs to empty their bowels even after pooping	• lumps that can be hard • rectal bleeding • itching • pain • atypical discharge from the anus • bowel incontinence • swollen lymph nodes in the groin or anal areas • narrowing of the stool

Find out more about the difference between external hemorrhoids and anal cancer.

Lumps on or around the anus are not always cancer. Below are some possible other causes of lumps on or around the anus.

Polyps

This is a benign growth that may form in the anus. They are often small, bumpy, and mushroom shaped. Symptoms include blood in the stool, mucus, stomach pain, and a change in bowel habits.

Polyps affect approximately 20–30% of American adults.

Anal warts

These are growths that form just outside the anus or in the lower anal canal. The cause of anal warts is a virus known as the human papillomavirus. Anal warts often require surgical or topical treatment.

Individuals who have or have had anal warts are more likely to develop anal cancer.

Skin tags

Skin tags look similar to hemorrhoids and warts. They are small, skin-colored, and usually soft. These lumps are benign, but doctors can remove them if a person wishes.

Anal fissures

These are small tears in the anal lining. Initially, an anal fissure does not cause lumps. However, if the fissure spreads downward, it can result in a lump.

People may also notice bright red blood on the toilet paper after wiping.

A person should contact a doctor if they develop lumps around the anus area, particularly if rectal bleeding or changes in bowel habits also accompany them.

People should also contact a doctor if they experience any other symptoms of anal cancer.

Some individuals with anal cancer may not develop any symptoms. However, occasionally, individuals may be able to feel lumps just inside or outside the anus.

These lumps may also cause rectal bleeding, pain or pressure in the anus, itching, and discharge.

If a person experiences symptoms of anal cancer, they should consult a doctor.

Colon and Rectal Cancer Guide

What is colon or rectal cancer?

Cancer that starts in the colon or rectum is often called colorectal cancer. It might also be called colon cancer or rectal cancer. It starts when cells in the colon or rectum grow out of control and crowd out normal cells.

Cancer cells can spread to other parts of the body. Cancer cells from the colon or rectum can sometimes travel to the liver and grow there. When cancer cells do this, it’s called metastasis. The cancer cells in the new place look just like the ones that started growing in the colon or rectum.

Cancer is always named for the place where it starts. So when colorectal cancer spreads to the liver (or any other place), it’s still called colorectal cancer. It’s not called liver cancer unless it starts from cells in the liver.

The colon and rectum

Colon cancer starts in the colon, and rectal cancer starts in the rectum. These organs are both part of the digestive system. This is where food is broken down to make energy and where the body gets rid of solid waste (poop or stool). On the picture above you can see where the colon and rectum are inside the body.

In most cases, colon and rectal cancers grow slowly over many years. Most of those cancers start as a growth called a polyp. Taking out a polyp early may keep it from turning into cancer.

Are there different kinds of colon and rectal cancers?

There are a few types of colon and rectal cancers. Your doctor can tell you more about the kind you have. 

The most common kind is called adenocarcinoma. This type of cancer starts in the cells that make mucus to cover the inside of the colon and rectum.

Questions to ask the doctor

• Why do you think I have colon or rectal cancer?
• Is there a chance I don’t have cancer?
• Would you please write down the kind of cancer you think I might have?
• What will happen next?

How does the doctor know I have colorectal cancer?

Sometimes colon or rectal cancer is found before it causes symptoms. This can happen with screening tests like a colonoscopy or a stool test you can do from home. Sometimes, these tests can even prevent colorectal cancer by finding polyps before they become cancer.

If you are having signs or symptoms of colorectal cancer, such as changes in your poop, bleeding, or belly pain, the doctor will ask you questions about your health and do a physical and rectal exam.

If signs are pointing to cancer, more tests will be done. Here are some of the tests you may need:

Colonoscopy: A colonoscopy is a test where a thin tube with a light on the end (called a colonoscope) is put through the anus, into the rectum and colon to look closely at the inside. If any abnormal lump (mass) or polyp is found, a piece of it can be taken (a biopsy) and checked in the lab for cancer cells.

CT or CAT scan: A CT scan is like an x-ray, but it takes more detailed pictures of your insides. CT scans can also be used to help doctors do a biopsy and can show if the cancer has spread.

Ultrasound: For this test, a small wand is moved around on your skin. It gives off sound waves and picks up the echoes as they bounce off tissues. The echoes are made into a picture on a computer screen. It’s used to help find cancer and see if it has spread.

MRI scan: This test uses radio waves and strong magnets instead of x-rays to make detailed pictures. MRI scans are helpful for looking at the liver and the brain and spinal cord.

Chest x-rays: X-rays may be done to see if the cancer has spread to your lungs.

Blood tests: Certain blood tests can tell the doctor more about your overall health.

PET scan: A PET scan uses a kind of sugar that can be seen inside your body with a special camera. If there is cancer, this sugar shows up as “hot spots” where the cancer is found. These scans can also help show if the cancer has spread.

Biopsy: During a biopsy, the doctor takes out a small piece of tissue where the cancer seems to be. The tissue is checked for cancer cells. This is the best way to know if you have cancer.

Gene and protein tests: The cancer cells in the biopsy tissue might be tested for genes or proteins such as KRAS, BRAF, MMR and MSI. Knowing which genes or proteins your cancer has can help the doctor decide if treatments like targeted therapy or immunotherapy might help.

Questions to ask the doctor

• What tests will I need to have?
• Who will do these tests?
• Where will they be done?
• Who can explain the tests to me?
• How and when will I get the results?
• Who will explain the results to me?
• What do I need to do next?

How serious is my cancer?

If you have colon or rectal cancer, the doctor will want to find out how far it has spread. This is called staging. Your doctor will want to find out the stage of your cancer to help decide what type of treatment is best for you.

The stage describes the growth or spread of the cancer through the layers of the wall of the colon or rectum. It also tells if the cancer has spread to nearby organs or to organs farther away.

Your cancer can be stage 0, 1, 2, 3, or 4. The lower the number, the less the cancer has spread. A higher number, like stage 4, means a more serious cancer that has spread far from the colon or rectum. Be sure to ask the doctor about your cancer stage and what it means for you.

Questions to ask the doctor

• Do you know the stage of the cancer?
• If not, how and when will you find out the stage of the cancer?
• Would you explain to me what the stage means in my case?
• Based on the stage of the cancer, how long do you think I’ll live?
• What will happen next?

What kind of treatment will I need?

There are many ways to treat colon and rectal cancers:

• Surgery and radiation therapy are mainly used to treat only the cancer. They do not affect the rest of the body. 
• Drugs such as chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy go through the whole body. They can reach cancer cells almost anywhere in the body.

Two or more types of treatment may be used at the same time, or they may be given one after the other. The treatment plan that’s best for you will depend on:

• The stage of the cancer
• The chance that a type of treatment will cure the cancer or help in some way
• Your age
• Other health problems you have
• Your feelings about the treatment and the side effects that may come with it
• The specific genes or proteins your cancer might have

Surgery for colon cancer

Most people with colon cancer have some type of surgery. The cancer, a small part of normal colon on either side of the cancer, and nearby lymph nodes are often removed. The 2 ends of the colon are then put back together.

For most colon cancers, an opening on the belly to get rid of body waste (poop) is not needed, but sometimes one is used for a short time. This opening is called a colostomy. If you need a colostomy for a short time, your doctor or nurse can tell you more about how to take care of it and when it can come out.

Surgery for rectal cancer

Most people with rectal cancer need surgery. Radiation and chemo might be given before surgery. Sometimes the cancer can be removed through the anus, without cutting through the skin. This might be done to remove some early stage cancers that are small and close to the anus.

If the rectal cancer is more advanced and close to the anus, surgery will be done to take out the cancer and make an opening on your belly to get rid of body waste (poop). This is called a colostomy. You will need it for the rest of your life.

If the rectal cancer has spread into nearby organs, more surgery is needed. The doctor may take out the rectum and nearby organs, like the bladder, prostate, or uterus, if the cancer has spread to those organs. You will need a colostomy after that surgery. If the bladder is removed, an opening to collect urine or pee (called a urostomy) is needed, too.

If you have a colostomy or a urostomy, you will need to learn how to take care of it. Nurses with special training will see you before and after surgery to teach you what to do.

Ask your doctor what type of surgery you will need. Ask what your body will look like and how it will work after surgery. 

Side effects of surgery

Any type of surgery can have risks and side effects. Ask the doctor what you can expect. If you have problems, let your doctors know. Doctors who treat people with colon and rectal cancer should be able to help you with any problems that may come up.

Radiation treatment

Radiation uses high-energy rays (like x-rays) to kill cancer cells. After surgery, radiation can kill small spots of cancer that may not be seen during surgery. If the size or place of the cancer makes surgery hard to do, radiation may be used before the surgery to shrink the tumor so it’s easier to take it out. In both cases, radiation helps keep the cancer from coming back in the place where it started. Radiation can also be used to lessen some problems caused by the cancer, like pain.

There are 2 main ways radiation can be given.

• It can be aimed at the colon or rectum from a machine outside the body. This is called external beam radiation. This kind is used most often for colon or rectum cancer. Getting this treatment is a little like getting an x-ray, but the radiation is stronger.
• Brachytherapy is another type of radiation. For this treatment, the doctor uses an endoscope (a long, flexible tube) to put small radioactive pieces called seeds very close to the rectal cancer. The seeds are taken out when treatment is done.

Sometimes, both types of radiation might be used.

Side effects of radiation treatments

If your doctor suggests radiation treatment, ask about what side effects you might have. The most common side effects of radiation are:

• Skin changes where the radiation is given
• Feeling sick to your stomach
• Diarrhea, pain when pooping, or blood in the poop
• Having to pee a lot, burning when you pee, or blood in the pee
• Feeling very tired (fatigue)

Many side effects can be treated ,and most get better after treatment ends. Some might last longer than others. Talk to your cancer care team about what you can expect during and after treatment.

Chemo

Chemo is the short word for chemotherapy — the use of drugs to fight cancer. The drugs may be given through a needle into a vein or taken as pills. The drugs go into the blood and are carried through the body.  

Chemo is given in cycles or rounds. Each round of treatment is followed by a break. This break lets the body recover from side effects before the next treatment is due. Most of the time, 2 or more chemo drugs are given. Treatment often lasts for many months.

Chemo after surgery can help some people live longer. It can also help ease problems caused by the cancer.

Many times chemo is given along with radiation. This is called chemoradiation.

Side effects of chemo

Chemo can make you feel very tired, sick to your stomach, and cause your hair to fall out. But these problems go away after treatment ends.

There are ways to treat most chemo side effects. If you have side effects, talk to your cancer care team so they can help.

Targeted therapy

Targeted therapy drugs may be used for certain types of colon or rectum cancer. These drugs affect mainly cancer cells and not normal cells in the body. They may work even if other treatment doesn’t. These drugs have different side effects than chemo.

Side effects of targeted therapy drugs

Side effects of targeted therapy depend on which drug is used. These drugs might cause high blood pressure, low blood counts, heart problems, and liver problems. 

There are ways to treat most of the side effects caused by targeted drugs. If you have side effects, talk to your cancer care team so they can help.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is treatment that either boosts your body’s immune response or changes how the immune system works to find and attack the colon or rectum cancer cells. These drugs are given into a vein.

Side effects of immunotherapy

Immunotherapy can cause different side effects depending on which drug is used. These drugs may make you feel tired, sick to your stomach, or cause a rash. Most of these problems go away after treatment ends. Immunotherapy can also cause more serious problems in the liver, intestines, and thyroid glands.

There are ways to treat most of the side effects caused by immunotherapy. If you have side effects, talk to your cancer care team so they can help.

Colostomy or ileostomy

As part of their colon or rectum cancer treatment, some people need a short term or long term colostomy or ileostomy after surgery. A colostomy is when the colon is cut above the cancer and attached to an opening in the skin of the belly to allow body waste (poop) to come out. Sometimes the end of the small intestine, instead of the colon, is connected to an opening in the skin. This is called an ileostomy. Either way, a bag sticks to the skin around the opening to hold the waste. Nurses who are trained on using an ostomy will meet with you to help you understand how it works and how to take care of it.

Clinical trials

Clinical trials are research studies that test new drugs or other treatments in people. They compare standard treatments with others that may be better. Clinical trials are the best way for doctors to find better ways to treat cancer. If your doctor can find one that’s studying the kind of cancer you have, it’s up to you if you want to take part. And if you do sign up for a clinical trial, you can always stop at any time.

If you’d like to learn more about clinical trials that might be right for you, start by asking your doctor if your clinic or hospital offers clinical trials. See Clinical Trials to learn more. 

What about other treatments that I hear about?

When you have cancer you might hear about other ways to treat the cancer or treat your symptoms. These may not always be standard medical treatments. These treatments may include vitamins, herbs, diets, and other things. You may wonder if these treatments are safe and whether they could help you.

Some of these treatments are known to help, but many have not been tested. Some have been shown not to help. A few have even been found to be harmful. Talk to your doctor about anything you’re thinking about using, whether it’s a vitamin, a diet, or anything else.

Questions to ask the doctor

• What treatment do you think is best for me?
• What’s the goal of this treatment? Do you think it could cure the cancer?
• Will treatment include surgery? If so, who will do the surgery?
• What will the surgery be like?
• Will I have a colostomy? For how long?
• Will I have an ileostomy?
• Will I need other types of treatment, too?
• What are the goals of these treatments?
• What side effects could I have from those treatments?
• What can I do about side effects that I might have?
• Is there a clinical trial that might be right for me?
• What about vitamins or diets that friends tell me about? How will I know if they are safe?
• How soon do I need to start treatment?
• What should I do to be ready for treatment?
• Is there anything I can do to help the treatment work better?
• What’s the next step?

What will happen after treatment?

You’ll be glad when treatment is over. But it’s hard not to worry about cancer coming back. Even when cancer never comes back, people still worry about it. For years after treatment ends, you will see your cancer doctor. Be sure to go to all of these follow-up visits. You will have exams, blood tests, and maybe other tests, like a colonoscopy or imaging tests, to see if the cancer has come back.

At first, your visits may be every 3 to 6 months. Then, the longer you’re cancer-free, the less often the visits are needed.

Having cancer and dealing with treatment can be hard, but it can also be a time to look at your life in new ways. You might be thinking about how to improve your health. Call us at 1-800-227-2345 or talk to your cancer care team to find out what you can do to feel better.

You can’t change the fact that you have cancer. What you can change is how you live the rest of your life – making healthy choices and feeling as well as you can.

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Rectal cancer is a malignant tumor that develops from the epithelium that lines its surface. This species is combined into one group with a similar lesion of the colon region and is called colorectal. It is deadly, ranks third in terms of mortality and frequency in oncology. In men, it is provoked by lung cancer, adenoma; in women and young girls, among the causes of occurrence are neoplasms of a gynecological nature. It is diagnosed at the age of 60 years with a peak incidence at 73 years (67%), but it also occurs in adolescents if there is a history of intestinal polyposis or gynecological oncopathology. According to survey statistics, a quarter of patients have distant metastases, 19% – first or second degree. The five-year survival rate for those who applied to the doctor is 60%. According to epidemiology data, 16 out of 100,000 people in Russia are at risk of getting colorectal cancer, some may die, others have a chance to survive.

If you or your loved ones need medical help, please contact us. The site specialists will advise the clinic where you can receive effective treatment:

Types of colorectal cancer

A neoplasm can progress rapidly and be endophytic (in the lumen), exophytic (forms a protrusion on the body) or infiltrative (an inflammatory conglomerate with cells and intercellular substance of the small pelvis is formed).

The following main types of rectal cancer are distinguished :

• • According to the zone of growth – rectosigmoid (ampullar, located 12 cm from the anus), upper ampullar (from 8 to 12 cm), middle ampullar and lower ampullar.
• • In terms of prevalence – rectal cancer occupies the lymph nodes in the perirectal zone (fibrous), pelvic tissue, inguinal and para-aortic lymph collectors, or metastasizes to the lungs or liver – then the changes are visible on the skin.
• • According to histological differences, it develops for a long time, with rare metastases (poorly differentiated), with aggressive growth and spread (highly differentiated), intermediate (moderately differentiated).

Colorectal cancer: symptoms and signs with photo

Symptoms of rectal cancer are divided into non-specific and characteristic. Non-specific include a feeling of weakness (experienced repeatedly), slow pulse, a sharp change in taste preferences. Observe signs of olfactory aberrations and the temperature, which is kept at 37 °.

Considering the characteristic signs of colon cancer, doctors note :

• • Blood in the feces – in the form of black clots when the keratinizing cancer is located in the upper rectal areas, bright scarlet spots – when localized in the lower regions. In the latter case, bleeding is observed.
• • Pain in the coccyx – a glandular formation has grown through the sheath with nerve endings, captured the pelvic nerve trunks, inflammation of the surrounding tissue masses has begun.
• • The appearance of frequent urge to defecate with painful sensations.
• • Constipation with a feeling of heaviness at the beginning, aching pains, swelling. Their duration is from two to eight days. Take into account the progressive atony of the intestine in the elderly.
• • If the localization of squamous non-keratinized oncological formation has occurred in the exit section, then it is palpated during palpation. Such rectal cancer leads to gas and fecal incontinence.

In the case of an advanced disease, persistent pains in the lower abdomen are added to these manifestations, a fistulous tract is formed between the intestinal membrane and the vagina (in female patients), and feces appear during urination.

As the photograph shows, rectal cancer spreads in the rectal lumen, causing bleeding and difficult defecation.

Causes of rectal cancer

Speaking about the etiology, the relevance of the problem and its definition, doctors believe that rectal cancer causes inflammation with a chronic course (ulcerative colitis, proctitis), cracks, trauma. If there are cases of diffuse polyposis or rectal cancer in a family history, then the likelihood of occurrence and the rate of occurrence are determined by genes, predisposition, and heredity. Often, due to a mutation of the cell nuclei, which is inherited, benign formations (from several tens to hundreds) appear on the intestinal mucosa. The conclusion of the process is the degeneration of formations into a colorectal variety.

Other obvious causes that can trigger rectal cancer :

• • Diet without vegetables, from fatty protein foods. It leads to constipation and traumatization of the membrane, causing irritation of the mucous membrane with toxins formed after the digestion of such products.
• • Work in asbestos industries, logging (complicated by breathing problems).

Colon cancer is not contagious, because it does not have a pathogen, so they cannot be infected by airborne droplets.

Stages of rectal cancer

If the initial precursors of rectal cancer are not treated, it develops for a long time , passing from 0 to 4 stages. However, in the early stages, cancer is curable.

Classification (which is similarly established according to TNM) is as follows :

• • At first manifestations, the cancer is asymptomatic, resembling an ulcer, concentrated in a specific area, which does not germinate through the submucosal layer. Dynamics: 80% remain alive, clinical remission.
• • At the primary stages of the second stage (2A), the cancer manifests itself differently: up to 5 cm in size, occupies up to half of the perimeter; 2B – metastasis with penetration into the peri-intestinal lymph nodes. About 60% survive.
• • Tumor progresses to variety 3A, cancer germinates. It is expressed by fibrosis of primary lymph nodes. On 3B (final third) – multiple metastatic foci. It is characterized by a survival rate of up to 30%.
• • On the fourth – extensive metastases, penetration of decaying oncology through the pelvic floor and destruction of part of the intestine. There is an occupation and disintegration of the bladder, these manifestations are late. Colon cancer is now virtually incurable.

The prognosis for an advanced type of cancer is unfavorable – death. If an operable tumor is found, it is removed.

The photo shows how an unresectable form of rectal cancer occupied the rectal body, which led to its complete removal.

Diagnosis of rectal cancer

The earlier an examination is carried out if a disease is suspected, the more likely the doctor is to check the data, and the patient is to receive a diagnosis on time and survive. Before diagnosing, it is recommended not to eat fruit for 1-2 days.

As needed (when the rectum hurts a lot, with burning and injury, the first neuroendocrine syndromes), drugs with a sedative effect are used in medicine. The reason for checking the internal intestinal relief is complaints of irregular stools, painful defecation, or the appearance of blood in the stool.

When cancer is detected, specialists use a number of the following techniques and tactics to detect its consequences :

• • Finger examination. The goal is to show the localization (anterior, posterior, lateral walls), to understand whether the metastases have blocked the lumen, whether the surrounding cells are affected.
• • Research using a sigmoidoscope and a proctoscope – hardware visual examination of the visible epithelial lining with penetration and biopsy.
• • After irrigoscopy with a contrast liquid, x-rays of the rectum are taken, combined malignant phenomena, infiltration are diagnosed.
• • Fibrocolonoscopy, during which a picture is sent to the monitor to describe the rectal part.
• • Ultrasound of the pelvis and peritoneum to determine the amount of exudate or transudate.
• • If the bladder with ureters is cancerous, IV urography is done. Analyze the blood test for tumor markers. The cytological picture is being studied. After cytology, the degree of development and danger to life is established, a history is collected to select the method of therapy.

Treatment of rectal cancer

Doctors are considering surgical procedures :

• • Organ Preserving. To help alleviate the condition and get rid of the disease, you need to excise part of the rectal muscles. It is used if the upper and middle sections are occupied by cancer.
• • Removing the walls of the intestine to stop cancer.
• • With a colostomy placed on the abdomen (another name is an artificial anus).

Surgery combines several methods of intervention to achieve recovery.

Treatment of rectal cancer is carried out by radio irradiation (external or internal) for a month, which slows down the process, destroys cancer cells, allows you to defeat cancer and prevent relapses. For older people with inoperable cancer, radiotherapy is given to alleviate symptoms and make them feel better, and they give pain medication. With contraindications to surgical intervention, radiation is used.

Chemotherapy against the disease (intravenous or tablet, with anesthesia) is used to fight when surrounding lymph collectors and other similar arrays have metastasized. This is an effective tool – the cancer is reduced in size, the patient’s well-being improves, there is a desire to fight.

To prevent negative consequences, rectal cancer prophylaxis is recommended. It protects and enhances the good prognosis of therapy. It is necessary to treat hemorrhoidal cones, take action when constipation occurs. Diet – vegetable fats, it is important to exclude protein foods or reduce their amount.

Recommendations: change your lifestyle, sleep and wakefulness, regularly undergo a medical examination, pay attention to psychosomatics and pain syndrome. This will not prevent rectal cancer 100%, but it will minimize the likelihood of its occurrence and help avoid the consequences.

Author: “Doctors of the big city”

Colon cancer – Hadassah Medical Moscow

Primary appointment (examination, consultation) with an oncologist	6 500 ₽
Repeated appointment (examination, consultation) with an oncologist	5 500 ₽

901 60

Appointment (examination, consultation) with an oncologist, PhD, primary	9 000 ₽
Appointment (examination, consultation) of an oncologist, candidate of medical sciences, repeated	7 500 ₽
examination, consultation) of an oncologist, specialist of the Institute of Oncology (consultation with preparation of a treatment plan), primary	7 500 ₽
Appointment (examination, consultation) with an oncologist, specialist of the Institute of Oncology (consultation with preparation of a treatment plan), repeated	6 500 ₽
Appointment (examination, consultation) of an oncologist, Professor of the Institute of Oncology (consultation with preparation of a treatment plan), primary	11,000 ₽
Appointment (examination, consultation) of an oncologist, professor of the Institute of Oncology (consultation with preparation of a treatment plan), repeated	10,000 ₽
Appointment (examination, consultation) of an oncologist, chief specialist in oncology, primary	9,000 ₽
) oncologist, chief specialist in oncology, repeated	7 500 ₽

9016 2 7 500 ₽

9 0162 6 500 ₽

9016 2 Remote consultation with an oncologist at the Israeli clinic Assuta Hospital Zhivelyuk Irina 9 0162 Remote consultation of an oncologist, professor, head of the Israeli oncogynecology department clinic Hadassah Medical Tamar Perry

901 66

9 0162 Remote consultation of an oncologist, neurooncologist , leading specialist of the oncology department of the Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov) Felix Bokshtein

9016 2 100 000 ₽

9 0161

Primary remote consultation with an oncologist	6 500 ₽
Repeated remote consultation with an oncologist	5 500 ₽
Remote consultation of an oncologist, PhD, primary . m.s., repeated	7 500 ₽
Remote consultation of an oncologist, chief specialist in oncology, primary	9,000 ₽
Remote consultation of an oncologist, chief specialist in oncology, repeated
Remote consultation of an oncologist, specialist of the Institute of Oncology (consultation with preparation of a treatment plan), primary	7,500 ₽
Remote consultation of an oncologist, specialist of the Institute of Oncology (consultation with preparation of a treatment plan), repeated
Remote consultation of an oncologist, professor of the Institute of Oncology (consultation with preparation of a treatment plan), primary	11 000 ₽
Remote consultation with an oncologist, professor of the Institute of Oncology (consultation with preparation of a treatment plan), repeated 0161	Remote consultation with an oncologist at the Israeli clinic Hadassah Medical (including the choice of a doctor )	27 500 ₽
Remote consultation of an oncologist, head of the department, Israeli clinic Hadassah Medical	38 500 ₽
Remote consultation with an oncologist at the Hadassah Medical Israeli clinic, Professor Alex Lossos curator Hadassah Medical Moscow, Polina Stepensky	43 000 ₽
Remote consultation of a specialist in internal medicine, endocrinology and neuroendocrine tumors of the Israeli clinic Hadassah Medical Glasberg Simona	71 500 ₽
Remote consultation of the oncologist-radiologist of the Israeli clinic Hadassah Medical Meirovich Amirkhay	71 500 ₽
90 000 ₽
Remote consultation of an oncologist at the Israeli Medical Center named after Yitzhak Rabin (Beilinson Hospital) Lukman Yehudit	73,500 ₽
Remote consultation of a radiologist, professor, head of the PET / CT department, Israeli clinic Hadassah Medical Orevi Marina	88 000 ₽
Reception (examination, consultation) of a hematologist, professor, head of the hematology department , Israeli clinic Hadassah Medical Vainshteina Vladimir	44 000 ₽
Remote consultation of a hematologist, professor, head of the hematology department, Israeli clinic Hadassah Medical Vainshtein Vladimir	Rs.
Remote consultation of a pediatric oncologist, Dr. MD, Leading Specialist of the Department of Pediatric Hemato-Oncology, Hadassah Medical Clinic, Israel Cohen Odaya	73 500 ₽
Appointment (examination, consultation) of an oncologist, oncourologist, head of the outpatient oncology department of the Yitzhak Rabin Medical Center (pain Nica Beilinson) Neiman Vita	44,000 ₽
Appointment (examination, consultation) with an oncologist at the Israeli clinic Assuta Hospital Zhivelyuk Irina	44,000 ₽
Remote consultation of an oncologist, professor, Head of the Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Tumors at an Israeli clinic hadassah medical0162 Reception (examination, consultation) of an oncologist, oncosurgeon, professor, head of the department of oncosurgery at the Rambam Health Care Campus clinic Eli Kakiashvili	33 000 ₽
tics Israeli clinic Hadassah Medical Kaduri Luna	71 500 ₽
Remote consultation of an oncologist, senior physician of the Ella Institute for the Study and Treatment of Melanoma and Skin Cancer of the Chaim Sheba Medical Center (Tel Hashomer) Netanel Asher	82 500 ₽
Remote consultation of an oncologist, professor, chief oncologist of the northern region of Israel, gastro-oncologist Irit Ben Aharoni	87 000 ₽
55 000 ₽
Remote consultation of a neurosurgeon, a specialist in brain surgery, deputy head of the neurosurgery department of the Israeli clinic Assuta Hospital Margalita Nevo	67 000 ₽
Remote consultation of an oncologist, onco-pulmonologist, head of the department of lung tumors at the Institute of Oncology of the Israeli clinic Assuta Hospital Elisabeth Dudnik	81 500 ₽
Remote consultation of an oncologist, oncourologist, head Department of Outpatient Oncology of the Yitzhak Rabin Medical Center (Beilinson Hospital) Neyman Vita	90,000 ₽
Remote consultation of an oncologist, MD, leading specialist of the oncology department of the Israeli clinic Hadassah Medical Mark Tempera	Rs.
Remote consultation of an oncologist, a leading specialist at the Israeli Institute of Oncology clinic Assuta Hospital Julia Grinberg	65 000 ₽
Remote consultation of an oncologist, oncosurgeon, professor, head of the oncosurgery department of the Israeli clinic Rambam Health Care Campus Eli Kakiashvili	40 500 ₽
Extramural consultation of an oncologist according to documents primary 163	5 500 ₽
Correspondence consultation of an oncologist, Doctor of Medical Sciences, according to documents primary	9 000 ₽
Correspondence consultation of an oncologist, PhD, according to documents repeated	7 500 ₽
60 500 ₽
Oncological consultation	24 000 ₽
Interdisciplinary consultation with the participation of foreign specialists
Remote consultation of an oncologist, pulmonologist, head of the Institute of Oncology of the University Medical Center ” Meir, Kfar Saba, Professor Mai Gottfried	90,000 ₽
Remote consultation of an oncologist, professor, head of the department of bone and soft tissue oncology of the Yitzhak Rabin Medical Center (Beilinson Hospital) Alona Zer-Koch	79 000 ₽
Remote consultation of the oncologist of the Israeli clinic Hadassah Medical Yakir Rotenberg	28 500 ₽
Remote consultation neurologist, neurooncologist, head of the neurooncological service of the medical center Ichilov Rabin (Beilinson hospital) Felix Bukshtein	Rs. 0163	82 500 ₽
Remote consultation of an oncologist, director of the neuro-oncological unit of the Chaim Sheba Medical Center (Tel Hashomer) Helen Toledano	90 000 ₽
Remote consultation of an oncologist, professor, head of the oncology center Davidov as part of the Yitzhak Rabin Medical Center (Beilinson Hospital) Gal Merkel	0162 Ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy of the thyroid or parathyroid gland	6,900 RUB
61	Care of the venous port (port flushing)	aseptic dressing	880 ₽
Applying a large aseptic dressing	1 700 ₽
Trepan biopsy of the bone marrow of the iliac wing 9Aspiration biopsy of the bone marrow 500 ₽

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