If anal cancer spreads

Cancer cells can spread from the anus to other parts of the body. This spread is called metastasis.

Understanding how a type of cancer usually grows and spreads helps your healthcare team plan your treatment and future care. If anal cancer spreads, it can spread to the following:

  • lymph nodes around the rectum, groin and pelvis
  • rectum
  • bladder
  • urethra
  • vagina or prostate
  • liver
  • lungs
  • bone