Anal Dysplasia Screening and Traditional High-Resolution Anoscopy

Anal intraepithelial neoplasia lesions (AIN) has the potential to develop into anal cancer if left untreated. It is, therefore, critical to screen, diagnose and treat anal lesions in a precancerous phase. 

Pap test

Historically the test for squamous cell cancer of the anal canal is done with an anal Pap test. Unfortunately, due to the nature of the test it only detects about 80% of lesions.

In some hospitals, the Pap test is carried out first and if positive to high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (H-SIL) or exhibits questionable outcomes for atypical squamous cells (ASC-US and ASC-H), then a High-Resolution Anoscopy (HRA) exam is carried out.

High-Resolution Anoscopy (HRA)

The ability to detect anal cancer early is imperative to prevent any advancement of the disease and as a result the potential for highly invasive procedures. HRA is an especially sensitive test that enables the clinician to diagnose even the early stages of AIN. It stands to reason, therefore, that screening for and treating AIN lesions is enormously important in the management of anal cancer. 

As it stands, HRA is one of the best methods to test and treat for AIN. Regrettably it is not widely available meaning it is difficult to get the continued surveillance needed for the high-risk population. 

It is commonplace to find centers using colposcopes for HRA, which can be awkward and challenging to use. The availability of the kit is another consideration to take into account for colorectal use. It can often make providing the service problematic and costly.

A new approach to High-Resolution Anoscopy: THD^® HRStation

THD^® HRStation provides a means to surmount the constrictions of other technologies. 

The THD^® HRStation is a small and accessible device designed specifically for this purpose. The THD^® Light-Scope Procto HRA is a self-illuminating proctoscope meaning no external light source (and cable) is needed. 

To learn more about the advantages of THD^® HRStation, click here.