Abstract
Anal dysplasia, primarily caused by high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection,
presents as a precursor to anal cancer (AC), especially among high-risk populations
such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive individuals. This review evaluates
evidence for the treatment of anal intraepithelial neoplasia, focusing on recent advancements
in the context of the Anal Cancer/HSIL Outcomes Research Study (ANCHOR) trial which
demonstrates that active treatment of high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions
markedly reduced progression to AC. This affirms the value of proactive treatment
strategies over passive monitoring. Furthermore, we will discuss various treatment
modalities, including topical agents, electrocautery, and HPV vaccination, and their
efficacy and limitations. This review underscores the necessity of integrating screening
and targeted interventions, particularly for high-risk groups, to reduce AC incidence.
Future research should aim to validate these findings across broader demographic groups,
refining public health policies and clinical guidelines to include effective screening
and treatment protocols.
Keywords
anal dysplasia - high-resolution anoscopy - human papillomavirus - anal intraepithelial
neoplasia
