My partner of 5 years who has been HIV positive for 20 years was diagnosed today with "Squamous Cell Cancer". We are extremely confused right now. The Dr. is check his abdomen, colon, stomach areas because in his stomach he is experiencing pain. Everything we are reading however tells us that this is a cancer of the anus. The Dr. told us this is a cancer of esophogus, intestines and stomach. We can find nothing on the internet regarding treatment and general prognosis. Can you share what you know?

Sorry to hear about your partner. Squamous cells are the flat cells on the surface of our bodies. They meet the taller columnar cells of the bodies insides at several points: the anus, cervix (in women) and oesophagus. These meeting points or transition zones are prone to cancerous changes. Squamos cell carcinoma is also a common form of skin cancer. The first issue with a cancer is to stage it...assess whether it is localised, invasive or has spread to lymph gland or other organs. This will done by a surgeon or/and oncologist with biopsies and MRI scans. Once this is done they will discuss a treatment plan. Some more information can be found on the web such as at http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_4_1X_What_is_esophagus_cancer_12.asp Your partner's oncologist will guide you about the disease a lot more any let you know the findings of test and the treatment plan. I hope this helps Dr Moyle