Transitional cloacogenic carcinoma of the anus

Abstract

Transitional cloacogenic carcinomas are a distinct group of anal neoplasms, arising from the embryologic cloacogenic membrane. Many previously described anal tumors may be placed in this category. Abdominoperineal resection with posterior vaginectomy in the female is indicated for invasive lesions. Wide local exicision may be adequate in small, well-differentiated lesions. Groin dissection should be an interval procedure or deferred until clinical evidence of inguinal metastases is present. Careful pathologic examination of all tissue excised for benign anorectal disease should be performed, since unsuspected neoplasia may be found. Patients who have tumors of the anorectal area must be followed diligently, because of the potential development of a 2nd primary neoplasm in the region.