Usefulness of Anal Cytology in Patients at Risk for Anal Cancer

Abstract

Introduction: Anal carcinoma and its precursor lesions constitute a disease whose understanding has advanced greatly in recent years in terms of its etiology, natural history, diagnosis, and treatment.

Objective: To evaluate the usefulness of anal cytology as a screening tool in patients with risk factors for anal cancer.

Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional, prospective study was conducted with 71 patients treated in the coloproctology department of the Dr. Salvador Allende Teaching Surgical Hospital. Men who have sex with men, women with a history of condylomas, and patients ≥ 20 years of age were included. Cases with incomplete data or without consent were excluded.

Results: 67.6% were men with an average age of 28.6 ± 5.7 years (range 30-39 years). Anal condylomas were present in 81.7%, followed by human papillomavirus infection (76.1%) and HIV+ and smoking, both with equal percentages (35.2%). Forty-two-point three percent had grade I anal intraepithelial neoplasia, 16.9% had grade II anal intraepithelial neoplasia, and 18.3% had normal results. Only 13 patients (18.3%) did not require follow-up.

Conclusions: The results of anal cytology showed a higher frequency of low-grade lesions, making it an important diagnostic tool in the early detection of anal cancer, especially in patients with risk factors.