Anal Cancer Symptoms

Anal cancer symptoms can vary somewhat depending on the specific location of the tumor and its size. Generally, because the anus is a relatively small area and comes to the surface of the body, tumors in this region are usually noticed early. Deeper tumors, including cancers of the rectum, may be more difficult to detect and may not cause symptoms which are as obvious initially.

It should be noted that there are other diseases that can affect the anus and can cause symptoms that are similar to anal cancer symptoms. For example, hemorrhoids can present as a lump or bump in the anal region which may cause pain, itchiness and can also bleed occasionally, particularly with bowel movements. Hemorrhoids are not tumors or cancer. They are abnormally dilated veins in the area of the anus. Likewise, a peri-anal abcess or fistula, caused by an infection, can cause a lump, pain and discharge in the anal region. While these diseases may initially be confused for anal cancer, an appropriate exam and work-up would readily reveal the true nature of these different diseases.

Some Common Symptoms of Anal Cancer

• A mass, lump or bump, felt in the anal region
• Bleeding from the anus: Anal bleeding can be spontaneous or during bowel movements. The bleeding is bright red blood. Of note, hemorrhoids can also cause bright red blood bleeding from the anal region as well.
• Discharge from the anus
• Anal itchiness, pressure or pain
• A change in bowel movements, such as thin stools or either constipation or diarrhea

If you experience any symptoms which are concerning for anal cancer, you should consult your physician. A basic exam by a doctor can usually distinguish concerning masses from other diseases. If needed, a further work-up, perhaps including a biopsy of the concerning area, may be warranted to diagnose anal cancer or to rule it out.