High-Resolution Anoscopy: A New Tool for Better Health

Prism Health North Texas is excited to offer a new service: high-resolution anoscopy (HRA)! This procedure helps detect and prevent serious health problems, especially for people at higher risk of anal cancer. You may have heard of a colonoscopy, but HRA is a different exam that focuses on a specific part of the body. In this blog, we’ll explain what HRA is, how it’s different from a colonoscopy, and why it’s important for your health.

What Is High-Resolution Anoscopy?

High-resolution anoscopy is a medical procedure that allows medical providers to closely examine the anal canal for abnormal cells. It uses a small tool called an anoscope, along with a special microscope that helps providers see changes in the tissue that might not be visible otherwise.

HRA is especially helpful for people who have a higher risk of developing anal cancer, such as those who have had HPV (human papillomavirus), HIV, or a history of abnormal anal Pap smears. Catching these changes early can help prevent cancer from developing.

How Is HRA Different from a Colonoscopy?

Both procedures help providers check for health problems, but they focus on different areas of the body:

• High-resolution anoscopy (HRA) looks only at the anal canal, which is the short passage at the end of the digestive system.
• Colonoscopy examines the entire colon (large intestine) to check for polyps, cancer, or other conditions.

Another key difference is that HRA does not require full sedation. While a colonoscopy usually requires a patient to be asleep or heavily sedated, an HRA is done while the patient is awake. The exam is quick, usually taking less than 30 minutes.

Why Might You Need an HRA?

Medical providers may recommend an HRA if you have certain symptoms or risk factors. You should consider getting an HRA if you experience:

• Anal pain or discomfort
• Bleeding from the anus
• Unusual lumps or growths
• A history of HPV or abnormal anal Pap smears
• HIV or a weakened immune system

Many people with HPV infections don’t have symptoms, but in some cases, the virus can cause cell changes that may turn into cancer over time. That’s why it’s important to have regular check-ups if you are at risk.

The Benefits of High-Resolution Anoscopy

HRA offers many benefits, especially for those at risk of anal cancer:

• Early Detection: The exam can identify abnormal cells before they become cancerous.
• Minimally Invasive: There is no need for sedation, and the procedure is quick.
• Helps Prevent Cancer: If abnormal cells are found, providers can recommend treatment before they develop into something more serious.
• Safe and Effective: HRA has been proven to be a useful tool in preventing anal cancer, especially in high-risk individuals.

Get Checked at Prism Health North Texas

At Prism Health North Texas, we are committed to providing high-quality, affordable healthcare to everyone. Our new high-resolution anoscopy service helps detect and prevent anal cancer before it becomes a serious issue.

If you have symptoms or risk factors for anal cancer, don’t wait—schedule an appointment today by completing our online form or calling 214-521-5191. We also offer HIV care, sexual health services, and primary care to help you stay healthy.

To learn more or book a visit, call us or visit phntx.org. Your health matters, and we’re here to help you take care of it.