Treatment Of Anal Cancer

The incidence of anal cancer is steadily increasing. The development of anal cancer is closely associated with human papillomavirus. Anal cancer is more frequently diagnosed in women. Simultaneous radiochemotherapy is standard treatment and generally includes sphincter preservation. Intensity-modulated radiotherapy has significantly reduced side effects. Abdominoperineal rectal extirpation achieves a cure of residual tumor after radiochemotherapy or in local recurrence. Regular follow-up ensures an early indication for surgical intervention. Newer substances and/or addition of induction or response preserving chemotherapy have failed to demonstrate improvement. The search for new substances, especially immunotherapeutics, is promising. Cooperation of all involved disciplines is necessary to achieve good results.