Deciphering the Molecular Landscape of Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Anal Canal: From Biology to Precision Oncology

Abstract

Simple Summary Squamous cell carcinoma of the anal canal (SCAC) is a rare malignancy whose incidence has been increasing worldwide. The main etiological factor is HPV infection, particularly in association with HIV infection and other immunosuppressive conditions. The majority of patients present with localized disease and are treated with chemoradiotherapy, but a significant percentage experience relapses, and approximately 10% present with advanced disease. In the advanced setting, the main therapeutic strategies are systemic chemotherapy and, more recently, immunotherapy, but the prognosis remains poor. In this context, the identification of novel personalized treatments and reliable predictive biomarkers is crucial.