INFO & BLOG
About diagnosis, treatment and recovery
Why isn’t surgery performed first in anal cancer?
Anal squamous cell cancer is highly sensitive to chemoradiotherapy; therefore the primary curative treatment is chemoradiotherapy and anal function is preserved. Surgery comes up only in residual or recurrent cases.
What is the Nigro protocol?
It is the combination of concurrent chemotherapy and radiotherapy, the standard curative treatment for anal cancer; it spares most patients from surgery.
Why is IMRT radiotherapy preferred?
IMRT/VMAT delivers a high dose to the tumor while sparing surrounding tissues, markedly reducing skin, bowel and bladder side effects.
Will my anus be preserved after treatment?
The goal is to preserve the organ and sphincter function; in most patients this is possible with chemoradiotherapy. Surgery is needed only in non-responding or recurrent cases.
What is the relationship between HPV and anal cancer?
Persistent high-risk HPV infection is the leading cause of anal cancer; this relationship affects the tumor’s biology and the follow-up approach.
Is treatment different in patients living with HIV?
HIV increases anal cancer risk; treatment is still chemoradiotherapy-based, but the dose and support plan are tailored per patient in the council.
When is salvage surgery (APR) needed?
In residual disease that does not fully respond to chemoradiotherapy or in recurrence, salvage abdominoperineal resection may be required; the decision is made in the council.
Is there a role for immunotherapy in advanced anal cancer?
In advanced or metastatic disease, immunotherapy options are considered as additions to systemic treatment for eligible patients.
What documents are needed for a second opinion?
Imaging (PET-CT, pelvic MRI), anoscopy/biopsy and pathology reports, and HPV status if available, should be shared.
How does the process work for international patients?
The entire process is coordinated with visa, transfer, accommodation and medical interpreter support; the offer is provided through remote file evaluation.