Anal Dysplasia
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A global leader in anal cancer prevention
UCSF Health is home to the first program in the world dedicated to anal cancer prevention. Our experts played a key role in identifying the link between anal dysplasia (precancerous cells in the anus) and anal cancer.
This breakthrough discovery redefined our ability to screen for anal cancer, helping us prevent it and detect it as early as possible. Through our Anal Neoplasia Clinic, Research and Education (ANCRE) Center, UCSF Health remains an international leader in anal cancer research, education and prevention.
Anal cancer risk factors and prevention
Anal cancer is on the rise in the U.S. Most cases are caused by HPV. This virus is common among sexually active people and can lead to precancerous changes in anal tissue, which may progress to anal cancer.
A healthy immune system can usually clear the virus. But some strains of HPV are more likely to persist, which is more common in people with weakened immune systems. This increases the risk of developing anal cancer. Our goal is to reduce that risk through close monitoring and early treatment.
We offer a wide range of screening, diagnostic testing and treatment options, which include:
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Anal Pap tests
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Anal biopsy
-
Infrared coagulation therapy
-
Electrocautery therapy
Our doctors also lead research on anal dysplasia, ensuring our patients always have access to the latest, most effective therapies.
A global leader in anal cancer prevention
UCSF Health is home to the first program in the world dedicated to anal cancer prevention. Our experts played a key role in identifying the link between anal dysplasia (precancerous cells in the anus) and anal cancer.
This breakthrough discovery redefined our ability to screen for anal cancer, helping us prevent it and detect it as early as possible. Through our Anal Neoplasia Clinic, Research and Education (ANCRE) Center, UCSF Health remains an international leader in anal cancer research, education and prevention.
Anal cancer risk factors and prevention
Anal cancer is on the rise in the U.S. Most cases are caused by HPV. This virus is common among sexually active people and can lead to precancerous changes in anal tissue, which may progress to anal cancer.
A healthy immune system can usually clear the virus. But some strains of HPV are more likely to persist, which is more common in people with weakened immune systems. This increases the risk of developing anal cancer. Our goal is to reduce that risk through close monitoring and early treatment.
We offer a wide range of screening, diagnostic testing and treatment options, which include:
-
Anal Pap tests
-
Anal biopsy
-
Infrared coagulation therapy
-
Electrocautery therapy
Our doctors also lead research on anal dysplasia, ensuring our patients always have access to the latest, most effective therapies.
Providers
Cristina Brickman, MD
Infectious Diseases • HIV Medicine
Joel M. Palefsky, MD
Infectious Diseases
Vasean K. Patel, NP, BSN
Medical Oncology
Rosalyn E. Plotzker, MD, MPH
Preventive Medicine
Excellence in patient care
Best in California and No. 7 in the nation for cancer care
Related services
Related conditions & treatments
Conditions
- Anal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
- Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)
Treatments
- Anal Pap Smear
- Anoscopy
- Biopsy of Rectum
- Cancer Screening
Clinical trials
Anal High-risk HPV, HSIL, and Microbiome Among Hispanic Peoples Living With HIV (PLWH)Opens in a new window
The study evaluates if there is relationship between the kinds of bacteria living in the anus (also known as the anal microbiome) and the risk of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection or HPV-related pre-cancer (high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions or HSIL) in Hispanic people living with HIV (PLWH) in Puerto Rico, Mexico and California
Accreditations & memberships
National Cancer Institute
The National Cancer Institute has designated UCSF Health a comprehensive cancer center, its highest ranking. This designation is awarded to centers that demonstrate scientific excellence and the ability to conduct cancer research across many disciplines.
Commission on Cancer
UCSF Health's cancer programs have been accredited by the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer (CoC) since 1933. The CoC is a consortium of groups dedicated to improving cancer patients' survival and quality of life via research, education and better medical care.
National Comprehensive Cancer Network
UCSF is a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, an alliance of the world's top cancer centers. The network brings together leaders in treatment and research to improve the quality, effectiveness and efficiency of cancer care.
Research initiatives
UCSF Anal Cancer ResearchOpens in a new window
The UCSF Anal Neoplasia Clinic, Research and Education Center participates in research aimed at improving the understanding and treatment of anal neoplasia and cancer.UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center ResearchOpens in a new window
UCSF is home to a range of research initiatives aimed at improving outcomes for cancer patients everywhere. This includes research on topics such as immunotherapy, BRCA mutations and molecular diagnostic testing.
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