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Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2002; 15(4): 255-262
DOI: 10.1055/s-2002-36507
Copyright © 2002 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Adenocarcinoma of the Anal Canal

Harvey G. Moore1 , Jose G. Guillem1,2
  • 1Colorectal Service, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, New York
  • 2Cornell University Medical College, New York, New York
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Publication History

Publication Date:
07 January 2003 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Anal adenocarcinoma is a rare tumor, comprising only 3 to 19% of all tumors arising in the anal canal. The site of origin of anal adenocarcinoma is controversial, but likely candidates include the anal glands and chronic fistula-in-ano. Signs and symptoms of anal adenocarcinoma are similar to other benign anorectal conditions, often delaying accurate diagnosis and potentially compromising outcome. The optimal surgical treatment remains to be defined, but abdominoperineal resection appears to be indicated in the majority of cases. Similarly, the role of radiation and chemotherapy remains unclear. Anecdotal reports suggest that mitomycin-based chemoradiation protocols similar to Nigro's protocol for squamous cancer of the anal canal may be efficacious as primary therapy for anal adenocarcinoma. Adjuvant radiation and 5-FU-based chemotherapy similar to rectal cancer protocols, given either preoperatively or postoperatively, may also improve local control and survival following surgical resection. Further studies, however, are needed.

KEYWORD

Adenocarcinoma - anal neoplasms - anal glands

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