What is an Anal Pap Smear?

Is a painless test obtained by your healthcare provider by inserting a polyester swab into the anal canal. Once properly inserted, the swab is then moved in a circular motion to obtain a sample of cells which will be analyzed by a pathologist for abnormal changes. The collection takes less than one minute, the procedure is essentially painless, and rarely associated with discomfort. These changes could be an early precursor to anal dysplasia.

Who Should Get Screened?

  • Heterosexual Men/Women living with HIV age 45 and over
  • Men who have sex with men (MSM) not living with HIV age 45 and over
  • Men who have sex with living with HIV age 35 and over

    Anyone male or female with anal warts or history of:

  • Solid organ transplant patients
  • History of cervical or anal cancer
  • Any known history of HIGH-RISK HPV

What is HPV & how does it correlate with Anal Cancer?

Anal cancer primarily forms from squamous cell carcinoma, a type of cancer that originates in the skin cells. HPV is a significant cause of this cancer. While there are many strains of HPV, only a few are considered oncogenic, meaning they can cause cancer. These harmful strains are typically spread through sexual activity or any skin-to-skin contact. It's estimated that around 80% of the global population will be affected by HPV at some point in their lives. HPV can disrupt normal cellular functions, causing skin cells to multiply abnormally. This uncontrolled growth results in a cluster of abnormal tissue known as dysplasia. If dysplasia occurs in the anal canal, it can potentially lead to anal cancer if left untreated.

Detection & Prevention

Early detection of anal dysplasia is crucial in preventing it from developing into cancer. At OIC, we use a procedure called High Resolution Anoscopy (HRA) to identify and treat dysplasia. During this procedure, a high-powered microscope is used to examine the anal canal for abnormal cells. If dysplasia is found, we can treat it promptly to prevent the progression to cancer.

What are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus. They can cause discomfort, pain, itching, and bleeding. Hemorrhoids are common and can be caused by factors such as straining during bowel movements, sitting for long periods, or increased pressure on these veins especially during pregnancy.

Hemorrhoid Banding (Rubber Band Ligation):

a common and effective medical procedure used to treat internal hemorrhoids. During the procedure, a small rubber band is placed around the base of the internal hemorrhoid. This band cuts off the blood supply to the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink and fall off within a few days.

Benefits of Hemorrhoid Banding:

  • Minimally invasive
  • Performed on an outpatient basis
  • No prep or sedation required
  • Minimal discomfort and downtime
  • Provides relief from symptoms such as bleeding, pain, and discomfort

 

Anal Warts

Anal warts, caused by certain strains of HPV, are growths found in and around the anus. These warts can cause discomfort, itching, and sometimes bleeding. It is important to remove anal warts not only to alleviate symptoms but also to reduce the risk of further complications, including cancer.

Removal Methods at OIC:

  • Cryotherapy: Freezing warts with liquid nitrogen.
  • Hyfrecator: A device used to destroy tissue by applying electrical current, effective for wart removal.
  • An evaluation by our healthcare professionals is required to determine the most appropriate treatment for each patient, ensuring the best outcomes and adequate care.

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