Abstract

We studied 37 cases of carcinoma of the anus treated from 1950 to 1977, reviewing preexisting anorectal disorders, presenting symptoms, anatomic location, and histologic classification. There was a fivefold female-to-male predominance. Most patients presented in the seventh decade of life and exhibited alarming delays in seeking professional care. The crude five-year survival rate for all patients was 64%. Synchronous inguinal node metastasis is a poor prognostic sign, but some patients achieved excellent survival statistics after groin dissection. Guidelines for surgical management are presented.