Anal cancer
With one of the largest cancer programs in the tri-state area and nationally recognized physicians, Northwell is where New York goes for treatment.
Our approach
Specialized care
We offer the latest surgical and nonsurgical treatments from a multidisciplinary team with extensive experience in anal cancers.
Accessible screening
Our anal cancer specialists offer a full range of screening services throughout the region.
Clinical trials
With decades of research expertise, we provide a unique approach to innovative new therapies.
Always by your side
You’re not alone—our cancer navigators are here to help facilitate your treatment through every step of your care.
What is anal cancer?
As the name suggests, it’s a cancer that forms in the anus—the opening at the very end of the digestive system that controls the elimination of bodily waste. Because this cancer develops in a section of the bowels that doctors can easily see and reach, it’s more likely to be found early and therefore respond well to treatment.
There are several types of malignant (cancerous) anal tumors:
- Squamous cell carcinoma: Begins in cells that line most of the anus and is the most common type of anal cancer
- Adenocarcinoma: A rarer type of anal cancer that forms in mucous-producing glands. It is treated like a rectal cancer
- Basal cell carcinoma: A type of skin cancer that can develop in skin surrounding the anus
- Melanoma: A skin cancer that begins in pigment-producing cells in the anal lining
Other tumors and abnormal growths (like warts and polyps) start benignly but could eventually lead to cancer. There are several terms for these precancerous conditions:
- Dysplasia
- Anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN)
- Squamous intraepithelial lesions (SILs)
- Carcinoma in situ
- Bowen's disease
Systemwide leadership
Craig Edward Devoe, MD, MS
Chief - Hematology-Oncology, Department of Medicine, Long Island Jewish Medical Center, Chief - Hematology Oncology, Department of Medicine, North Shore University Hospital
We have specialists throughout NYC, Long Island and Westchester. Find a doctor near you.
