Anal adenocarcinoma: case report, literature review and comparative survival analysis

BMJ Open Gastroenterol. 2021 Jul;8(1):e000661. doi: 10.1136/bmjgast-2021-000661.

Abstract

Introduction: Anal adenocarcinoma is a rare malignancy with a poor prognosis.

Methods: We present a case of rare anal adenocarcinoma in a patient with normal screening colonoscopy. Using the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Result database between 2000 and 2016, we performed survival analysis among individuals>20 years old comparing anal and rectal cancers.

Results: Survival analysis showed that anal adenocarcinoma is associated with worse outcomes compared with rectal adenocarcinoma and anal squamous cell carcinoma.

Discussion: This case and survival data illustrate the importance of prompt investigation of symptoms irrespective of colorectal cancer screening status with careful attention to examination of the anal area.

Keywords: adenocarcinoma; anal; colorectal cancer.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adenocarcinoma* / diagnosis
  • Adult
  • Anus Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Humans
  • Neoplasm Staging
  • Rectal Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Survival Analysis
  • Young Adult