Anal Pap Test
Anal Pap Test & Rectal Cancer Prevention
The Pap test literally saves the lives of women threatened by cervical cancer. A newer version of the test, the anal pap test, aims to prevent anal-rectal cancer.
It is a simple, fast and safe method of detecting cancerous lesions or pre-cancerous changes with high diagnostic accuracy.
Anal cancer is a rare cancer, however in recent years it has shown an upward trend, as it is directly linked to specific types of the HPV virus (warts), the most common sexually transmitted disease today.
As with cervical cancer, the HPV virus is largely responsible for anal cancer.
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What is the Anal Pap Test?
The anal pap test is a cytological examination of the anus, which operates on the same philosophy as the Pap test for cervical cancer.
This is a screening test that can determine if you have or are at risk of developing rectal-anal cancer.
As with cervical cancer, rectal cancer can be detected in early stages, so diagnosis is of particular value, since the disease is treatable.
Features of Anal Pap Test
The anal pap test gives information about the existence of the wart virus as well as possible precancerous changes in the cells of the anus.
These changes can eventually lead to cancer.
The various subtypes of HPV are responsible for warts in the anal area and intra-anal warts, dysplastic lesions of the area and anal cancer.
However, they are permanently cured if detected in time.
The anal pap test is now recognized as a basic examination which contributes significantly, up to 75%, to the prevention of rectum-anal cancer in men and women.
For who is the Anal Pap Test for?
Rectal-anal cancer screening is not for the general population. So, called high-risk groups, which can benefit from screening, are:
- Men and women infected with HPV.
- Men having sex with men.
- Women with a history of cervical, vaginal or cervical cancer.
- Women who have anal sex.
- HIV positive.
- Immunocompromised persons.
The specific population groups, which are more vulnerable, need to be checked preventively and at regular intervals, for possible changes or pre-cancerous conditions.
It is very important to understand that if there is preventive control and treatment of the damage at an early stage, the possibility of dysplasia and carcinogenesis is significantly reduced.
Anal-Rectum Cancer Symptoms
In the early stages, rectal cancer usually has no symptoms. Gradually, however, and as the disease progresses, it may present:
- itching or pain in the anus
- bleeding
- growths or lumps in the anus
However, many of the above symptoms indicate non-cancerous diseases such as hemorrhoids. The doctor can rule out suspicious lesions or precancerous lesions in the area.
The anal pap test is recommended for people who have not shown any symptoms, but belong to high-risk population groups.
Anal Pap Test Procedure
More specifically:
- The patient is placed on the examination bed in a lateral position with bent knees.
- The doctor inserts a long thin cotton swab (cotton swab) into the anus with which he takes material which he then places in culture fluid.
- The material is sent to the laboratory for evaluation.
The examination takes a few minutes of the hour and the patient does not feel anything more than an inconvenience.
If abnormal cells are found the doctor will recommend a high-definition proctoscopy during which the area will be carefully examined.
When should the Anal Pap Test be done?
According to the American Cancer Society, there are recommendations that an anal pap test be performed annually in high-risk HIV-positive individuals and every 2 to 3 years in high-risk individuals who are HPV negative.
Advantages of Anal Pap Test
- It is safe.
- It is painless.
- It doesn't take more than a few minutes.
- It is a simple test with no complications.
- The examinee can return to his duties immediately after completing the examination.
The anal pap test is another important means of prevention, which should not be treated with fear. Instead, there must be an important reason not to be afraid!
