Anal cancer: an HIV-associated cancer

Anal neoplasia, which consists of human papillomavirus (HPV)-induced dysplasia and invasive cancer, is an increasingly common condition in the HIV-positive population. Screening programs for high-risk individuals have been proposed as a way to identify and treat precursor lesions. Although currently available treatment options for dysplasia are limited, therapeutic HPV vaccines represent a promising area of investigation. Invasive cancers typically require combined modality therapy following standard guidelines applicable to the general population. Although often curative, the toxicity can be difficult for the HIV-positive patient.