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Disease Comparison

Compare similarities and differences between two diseases.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Unknown
2
Symptoms
1
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs
VS

Anal Fistula

Moderate
2
Symptoms
2
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs

Overview

Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of cancer that develops from squamous cells, which form part of the outer and inner lining of many parts of the body. Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma commonly develops on areas of skin exposed to sunlight. It may appear as a persistent scaly patch, sore, growth, or area of abnormal skin.
Anal Fistula
An anal fistula is an abnormal tunnel that develops between the inside of the anus or rectum and the skin near the anus. It often develops after an infection or abscess in an anal gland. Symptoms may include persistent drainage, pain, swelling, irritation, or recurrent abscesses around the anus.

Symptoms

Shared
None
Only in Left Disease
Persistent Hoarseness Sleep Paralysis
Only in Right Disease
Fever Painful Urination

Causes

Shared
None
Only in Left Disease
Genetics
Only in Right Disease
Infection Inflammation

Diagnosis

Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma is usually diagnosed by examining a suspicious skin lesion and performing a skin biopsy. During a biopsy, part or all of the abnormal area may be removed and examined under a microscope. The healthcare professional may also examine nearby lymph nodes or order additional tests when there is concern that the cancer has spread or is high risk.
Anal Fistula
An anal fistula is diagnosed through a medical history and examination of the anus and surrounding skin. The healthcare professional may look for an external opening, drainage, swelling, or tenderness. A digital rectal examination may help identify the tract. Imaging such as MRI or ultrasound may be used when the fistula is complex, recurrent, or difficult to identify during examination.

Prevention

Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Reducing ultraviolet exposure can lower the risk of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Protective measures include seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, using broad-spectrum sunscreen, and avoiding indoor tanning. People with previous skin cancer or other high-risk conditions should follow recommended skin examinations and report persistent or changing skin lesions promptly.
Anal Fistula
Preventing anal fistula mainly involves reducing the risk of anal abscesses and treating infections promptly. People with inflammatory bowel disease should follow appropriate medical treatment and monitoring. Persistent pain, swelling, drainage, or recurrent abscesses around the anus should be evaluated by a healthcare professional rather than left untreated.

Risk Factors

Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Risk factors include substantial lifetime exposure to ultraviolet radiation, fair or easily sunburned skin, previous skin cancer, treatment with radiation, long-term immune suppression, chronic wounds or scars, and certain inherited conditions. Older age is also associated with increased risk.
Anal Fistula
Risk factors include a previous anal abscess, inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn disease, recurrent infections in the anal region, previous anal or rectal surgery, and conditions that interfere with normal healing or immunity. A history of an anal fistula also increases the likelihood of recurrence.

Treatment

Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Treatment comparison will be available soon.
Anal Fistula
Treatment comparison will be available soon.