Diagnosis and Staging

Diagnosis. When anal cancer is suspected a thorough physical examination is performed. This examination typically consists of a digital rectal examination (DRE), and/or a visual examination of the anal canal using an anoscope or protoscope. These techniques are useful in verifying the presence of an abnormal growth, but the only definitive way to diagnose anal cancer is through a biopsy (examining a tissue sample).

Staging. Once a diagnosis of anal cancer is made, we perform a CT scan or MRI to identify the stage of the cancer. This is determined by noting the size of the tumor and how much it has spread to the surrounding lymph nodes or other organs of the body. Anal cancer is typically staged using the TNM system—the T-stage represents the size of the primary tumor, the N-stage indicates the degree of involvement of the lymph nodes, and the M-stage reflects the extent of spread to distant parts of the body.

To schedule a biopsy, or to join our Multidisciplinary GI Clinic, ask your primary care physician for a referral or make a self-referral by calling 1-877-LACKS-MI or 616-752-LACK(S).