What type of study is this?

This is a Qualitative Study study.

September 5, 2025Open Access

Patients’ Experiences of Diagnostic and Therapeutic High-Resolution Endoscopy in Treating Anal Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions: A Qualitative Study

Key Points

Patients reported a comforting encounter during high-resolution endoscopy, which is effective for treating anal squamous intraepithelial lesions.
The study interviewed 16 participants, uncovering themes around intimacy and uncertainty related to their conditions and treatments.
Using qualitative analysis, this research captured nuanced experiences of patients undergoing endoscopic treatment for anal lesions.
The findings highlight the importance of psychosocial support, advocating for patient-centered care in the management of HPV-related conditions.

Abstract

Background: Anal squamous cell carcinoma is a rare disease strongly associated with the human papillomavirus (HPV) and preceded by the premalignant anal squamous intraepithelial lesion (ASIL). High-resolution anoscopy (HRA) using a colposcope is considered the gold standard for detecting and managing ASIL. Despite being recommended in current guidelines for anal cancer screening, HRA availability remains limited. Although generally well tolerated, concerns about follow-up adherence persist. We have developed an endoscopic technique using high-resolution flexible endoscopes for detection, resection, and screening of ASIL. Our previous research suggests that this method is effective and gentle, but patients’ experiences of this approach remain underexplored. The aim of this study was to explore patients’ experiences of endoscopic detection, treatment, and screening of anal squamous intraepithelial lesions. Method: A qualitative approach was used involving semi-structured interviews and abductive qualitative content analysis. The 32-item COREQ checklist guided the reporting of the study. All participants followed a standardized protocol for treatment and follow-up. Results: Analysis of 16 interviews (female n = 7, male n = 9, age 19–72 years) yielded four categories: a comforting encounter in an exposed situation (with four subcategories); impact on intimate relationships (with one subcategory); living with uncertainty (with four subcategories); and physical discomfort (with two subcategories). Conclusions: High-resolution endoscopy is a well-tolerated and effective diagnostic and therapeutic modality for ASIL. However, the psychological impact of HPV-related conditions highlights the need for appropriate psychosocial support. These findings underscore the importance of integrating patient-centered care principles into the implementation of novel diagnostic and therapeutic technologies.

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