Cloacogenic carcinoma

Abstract

Cloacogenic carcinoma is a rare but a distinct group of anal neoplasms accounting for 2-3% of all anorectal neoplasms and arising from the embryologic cloacogenic membrane. This tumor is more aggressive and has a less favorable prognosis than the common squamous cell carcinoma. The gross appearance of these tumors is not distinctive. Overall 5 years survival is 45-50%. Abdominoperineal resection with wide excision of perineal skin and subcutaneous tissue is the accepted treatment. Increased depth of invasion and local or inguinal lymph node metastasis are associated with poor prognosis. Quite frequently cancer is not considered as a possible cause of patient's symptoms but early diagnosis and early treatment is required if improved survival rate is to be expected.