What is Anal Melanoma?
Anal melanoma is a rare aggressive cancer of the lining of the anus that produces melanin. It is a rare malignant tumor, with a survival rate of 5 years in only 10% of patients. Because of a rare carcinoma, it is often mistaken for hemorrhoids or polyps.Disease Epidemiology
Melanoma of the anus is a rare malignant neoplasm and accounts for approximately 1.3% of all melanomas (cancers of cells that produce melanin). Tumor lesions can affect the anus and rectum. It is more common in Caucasians than in African Americans. In 20-30% of cases, anal melanomas appear as benign polyps when viewed through an endoscope.Disease Etiology (Causes)
There is no well-known cause.Signs and Symptoms
The patient may suffer from the following signs and symptoms. These are- Bleeding from the anus
- Feeling of fullness and urge to passing stool even after defecation (passing stool)
- Pain or discomfort in the anus
- Itching on anus
- Changes in bowel habits
Diagnosis
The following diagnostic techniques and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis these are- Diagnostic imaging techniques such as USG, CT-scan, MRI, and PET scan can be used to detect the site, size, and extent of the tumor.
- Proctoscopy (This is an imaging technique in which a doctor can use a proctoscope to see the inside of the anus and rectum to detect disease or tumor)
- Tumor biopsy and histopathological examination
Treatment
Surgical resection (surgical removal of the tumor part of the skin along with the removal of some surrounding healthy tissues) of the tumor, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted immunotherapy are the main treatment options.What Support can we Give for Anal Melanoma?
Anal Melanoma is a rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Anal Melanoma we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!You can help us with your donation:
Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:Donations — Without a Ribbon is grateful when we receive every donation. Giving to Without a Ribbon helps us to provide ongoing support, organise the annual gathering and subsidise the costs of our Warriors attending these conferences.
Sponsorship — If you wish to sponsor our charity, please contact us using this form.
Volunteering — We are always looking for volunteers to help with different aspects of running our charity. So, if you are looking for volunteer work, please feel free to contact us.
