Anal canal carcinoma (squamous cell carcinoma) is primarily treated with the Nigro protocol (chemoradiotherapy). The standard chemotherapy regimen in this protocol is:
- A Cisplatin + capecitabine
- B 5-Fluorouracil + mitomycin C ✓
- C FOLFOX
- D Gemcitabine + carboplatin
Correct answer: B. 5-Fluorouracil + mitomycin C
Explanation
The Nigro protocol for anal canal SCC uses concurrent chemoradiotherapy: radiotherapy 45–54 Gy with concurrent 5-fluorouracil (continuous infusion) and mitomycin C (bolus on Day 1 and Day 29). This achieves complete response in ~80–90% of cases, avoiding abdominoperineal resection and permanent colostomy. ACT II trial established 5-FU + mitomycin C as superior to cisplatin combinations. Surgery (salvage APR) is reserved for residual or recurrent disease.
Reference: Bailey & Love's Short Practice of Surgery, 27th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.