Anal Cancer Screening (High-Resolution Anoscopy)

Contracting the human papillomavirus (HPV) as well as certain types of sexual activity can increase your chance of developing anal cancer. Through a partnership with the Center for Inclusion Health, Allegheny Health Network (AHN) Surgery Institute offers a specialized screening test for people at high risk for anal cancer. 

What is high-resolution anoscopy?

High-resolution anoscopy is an advanced type of anal cancer screening. It looks for changes in anal tissue on a cellular level — before these changes can be detected in other ways. Our physicians use this test to diagnose anal cancer in its earliest stages, when treatment is most effective.

Anal cancer screening at AHN: Why choose us?

Our colorectal surgeons provide comprehensive anal cancer screening services to detect anal cancer. The sooner you receive an accurate diagnose, the better your chances are for successful treatment.

Highlights of our services include:

• Highly trained physicians: At AHN, colorectal surgeons perform high-resolution anoscopies. Each of our colorectal surgeons is board-certified by the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery. That means they bring a high level of experience and expertise to your procedure.
• Advanced technology: We are one of the few health systems in the area providing high-resolution anoscopy as an option for anal cancer screening. This test is currently the best way for physicians to detect early stages of anal cancer. 
• Convenience: We offer this advanced testing at several AHN locations. Visit us where it works best for your schedule. 
• Comprehensive cancer care: If your anal cancer screening finds disease, you can access comprehensive cancer care within our network. Our colorectal surgeons are among the most experienced in the U.S. at treating this disease using sophisticated robotics technology. They have the expertise you need for the best chance at successful treatment. Learn more about our Cancer Institute.

HPV and anal cancer

HPV is commonly known as a virus that can cause cervical cancer in women. But HPV is actually made up of more than 100 different viruses that cause many types of cancer, including anal cancer in men and women.

• HPV can also cause anal warts. Having HPV or anal warts doesn’t mean you’ll get cancer. But having one of these conditions can put you at increased risk for developing anal cancer.
• HPV commonly spreads through skin-to-skin contact, such as sexual activity. Vaginal, oral, and anal sex are all ways HPV can spread from person to person.
• Certain challenges, such as substance use and unstable living situations, can make it hard to get high-quality health care. At our Center for Inclusion Health, we help people overcome these barriers so they can improve their health.
• The professionals at this center help coordinate appointments so that people at high risk for anal cancer can benefit from our specialized screening technology. Learn more about our Center for Inclusion Health.

Contact us

Call (412) DOCTORS (412) 362-8677 or request an appointment to learn more about AHN anal cancer screening services.