Anal Dysplasia
What is anal dysplasia?
Anal dysplasia is an abnormal cell change, commonly caused by human papilloma virus (HPV) infections, in the anal canal (last section of your intestines before the poo exits). Anal dysplasia is not cancer. It is categorised into either low grade SIL (LSIL) or high grade SIL (HSIL). LSIL does not turn into cancer but HSIL is a precancerous condition that can develop into an anal cancer.
Risk factors for anal dysplasia
The factors that increase the risk of anal dysplasia are quite similar to those of anal cancer
Human papillomavirus (HPV) virus infection in the genital or anal area
HIV infection / AIDS
Immunosuppressive medications (medications that suppresses your immune system)
Unprotected anal intercourse
Smoking of tobacco
Older ages
Multiple sexual partner
Symptoms of anal dysplasia
Anal dysplasia often has no associated symptoms until it has advanced to anal cancer. These symptoms when occur may include
Bleeding from the anus
A growth in the anus
Anal itch
Mucus discharge from the anus
Pain in the area of the anus
How is anal dysplasia treated?
A consultation with your GP and subsequent referral to a colorectal surgeon will ensure that your symptoms are appropriately assessed and treated
Treatment options will be dependent on the extent and the type of dysplasia
Topical 5% Imiquimod (Aldara) or 5% 5FU cream: 2-3 months duration of therapy
Electrocautery: a gentle brush of this instrument over the affected area
Evaluation with acetic acid and targeted excision of lesions +/- wide local flap (sometimes a local flap of normal tissue adjacent to the removed area is used to cover the large defect)
How is anal dysplasia prevented?
Getting vaccination against HPV
Using a condom
Limiting the number of sex partners
Stop smoking
Who should be screened for anal dysplasia?
People with HIV
People who have regular anal sex
People with a history of anal warts
People who have had other HPV related cancers
People who are immunosuppressed by certain disease or by medications