Anal Abscess Revealing Rectal Cancer: Case Report

Anal abscesses or fistulas as an initial presentation of cancer are exceedingly rare. This delay in diagnosis often results from an initial presumption of benign conditions, leading to advanced tumor stages upon initial detection. The scarcity of such cases has resulted in the absence of established treatment guidelines for anorectal cancers that manifest as abscesses or fistulas.

In light of this, we present our experience in managing a case of adenocarcinoma that was identified in association with persistent inflammation stemming from a chronic anal fistula. The patient, a 52-year-old individual with a history of recurrent anal fistulas, underwent abdominoperineal amputation as part of the treatment journey. Within the context of this case, we emphasize and discuss the clinical presentations, assessments, and therapeutic strategies applicable to individuals in similar situations.