Biological features of squamous cell carcinoma of the anus— a deep dive review
A comprehensive understanding of the biology of squamous cell carcinoma of the anus (SCCA) is essential for the development of targeted therapies and precision treatment strategies.
Squamous cell carcinoma of the anus (SCCA) is a human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated cancer with an increasing incidence. Localised disease is treated curatively with chemoradiotherapy (CRT) but has substantial toxicities and impact on quality of life. Much of our biological understanding of SCCA is extrapolated from other HPV-associated cancers. Initiatives are underway to connect clinicians and basic scientists to foster collaboration and knowledge sharing and to facilitate access to SCCA materials. To improve patient outcomes, a better understanding of SCCA-specific biology is required. This review discusses radiosensitivity, differences between HPV-positive and HPV-negative disease, hypoxia, immune environment, molecular characteristics, circulating tumour HPV‑DNA, and the microbiome. It also details preclinical biological models and future models needed to strengthen our understanding of SCCA biology.
A deeper insight into SCCA biology will enable the development of precision therapies, reduce treatment-related morbidity, and ultimately improve survival and quality of life for patients.
Evidence level: Korai humán adat. Kis vagy feltáró emberi adat.
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