What are the factors that affect the prognosis of anal cancer?

The prognosis (chance of recovery) depends on the following:

• The size of the tumor
• Where the tumor is in the anus
• Whether the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes

The treatment options depend on the following:

• The stage of the cancer
• Where the tumor is in the anus
• Whether the patient has human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
• Whether cancer remains after initial treatment or has recurred