Anal Neoplasia Clinic, Research and Education (ANCRE) Center
The Anal Neoplasia Clinic, Research and Education (ANCRE) Center is the world's first clinic devoted to anal cancer prevention. UCSF experts were the first to identify the link between neoplasias (precancerous lesions) and anal cancer, and they remain global leaders in the field. The center is part of the UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Anal cancer is on the rise in the U.S., and the vast majority of cases are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). This virus is extremely common among sexually active people and can lead to precancerous changes in the anal tissue, which may progress to anal cancer.
Most of the time, a healthy immune system can clear the virus. But particularly in immunocompromised people, certain strains of the virus can persist, increasing the risk of cancer. Our goal at the ANCRE Center is to provide the close monitoring and therapies that can reduce that risk.
Our center offers a wide range of screening, diagnostic and treatment options, including anal cytology, high-resolution anoscopy, anal biopsy, infrared coagulation therapy and electrocautery therapy. ANCRE’s doctors provide top-tier care as well as conducting research on anal neoplasia, giving our patients access to the latest and best techniques and therapies.
Our locations
Our team
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Cristina Brickman
MD
Infectious disease physician -
Darlene Chow
LCSW, MSW
Social worker -
Rachel Dornhelm
MSW
Social worker -
Joel M. Palefsky
MDCM, FRCPC
Infectious disease physician -
Vasean K. Patel
FNP
Nurse practitioner -
Rosalyn E. Plotzker
MD, MPH
Preventive medicine specialist -
Matthew Sachs
NP, MSN
Nurse practitioner -
Chia-Ching (Jackie) Wang
MD
Anal dysplasia specialist
Clinical trials
Incidence of HIV Infection in Screening Indian Men Who Have Sex With Men
The total number of participants with incident HIV divided by the total follow-up will be used to calculate the incidence per 100 person years. HIV status is determined by HIV rapid test and a confirmatory Western blot test.
Recruiting
Therapy Adapted for High Risk and Low Risk HIV-Associated Anal Cancer
Evaluated by Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) version 5.0. The adverse events will be summarized by overall, as well as by grade using frequency (percentage). A two-sided 95% confidence interval will be repor...
Recruiting
Anal High-risk HPV, HSIL, and Microbiome Among Hispanic Peoples Living With HIV (PLWH)
Among Hispanic PLWH without anal high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL), the investigators hypothesize the microbiome will be different between those with and without hr-HPV infection and the proportion with pro-inflam...
Recruiting
U.S. News rankings
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Among the top hospitals in the nation
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Best in Northern California and No. 7 in the nation for cancer care
Accreditations & memberships
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National Cancer Institute
The National Cancer Institute has designated UCSF a comprehensive cancer center, its highest ranking. This designation is awarded to centers that demonstrate scientific excellence and the ability to conduct cancer research across many disciplines.
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Commission on Cancer
UCSF's cancer programs have been accredited by the American College of Surgeons' Commission on Cancer (CoC) since 1933. The CoC is a consortium of groups dedicated to improving cancer patients' survival and quality of life via research, education and better medical care.
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National Comprehensive Cancer Network
UCSF is a member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, an alliance of the world’s top cancer centers. The network brings together leaders in treatment and research to improve the quality, effectiveness and efficiency of cancer care.
Support services
Plan your visit
What to Bring
- Photo I.D.
- Health insurance card
- Insurance authorization, if required
- Doctor's referral, if required
- Recent test results related to your condition
- List of your medications, including dosages, plus any you're allergic to
- List of questions you may have
- Device or paper for taking notes
Our research initiatives
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UCSF Anal Cancer Research
The UCSF Anal Neoplasia Clinic, Research and Education Center participates in research aimed at improving the understanding and treatment of anal neoplasia and cancer.
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UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center Research
UCSF is home to a range of research initiatives aimed at improving outcomes for cancer patients everywhere. This includes research on topics such as immunotherapy, BRCA mutations and molecular diagnostic testing.
