Topical trichloroacetic acid versus electrocautery for treatment of anal intraepithelial neoplasia in people living with HIV: a multicentre, randomised, non-inferiority trial (TECAIN-study) - Report - MDSpire

Topical trichloroacetic acid versus electrocautery for treatment of anal intraepithelial neoplasia in people living with HIV: a multicentre, randomised, non-inferiority trial (TECAIN-study)

  • By

  • Stefan Esser

  • Alexander Kreuter

  • Anja Potthoff

  • Robert Jablonka

  • Mark Oette

  • Martin F. Sprinzl

  • Daniel Exner

  • Konstantinos Bilbilis

  • Hildegard Lax

  • Eva-Maria Huessler

  • Steffi Silling

  • Ulrike Wieland

  • July 10, 2026

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Clinical Report: Comparative Efficacy of TCA and Electrocautery for AIN

Overview

The TECAIN study evaluates the efficacy and safety of topical trichloroacetic acid (TCA) versus electrocautery (ECA) for treating anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN) in HIV-positive individuals.

Background

Anal squamous cell carcinoma is linked to high-risk HPV infections and has a significantly higher incidence in people living with HIV (PLWH). Early treatment of high-grade anal intraepithelial lesions (HSIL) is crucial to reduce the risk of progression to anal cancer. Current treatment options, including electrocautery, have limitations such as high recurrence rates and the need for local anesthesia.

Data Highlights

No numerical data provided in the source material.

Key Findings

  • The TECAIN study is a multicenter, randomized non-inferiority trial comparing TCA and ECA for AIN treatment.
  • Topical TCA is proposed as a less complex and well-tolerated alternative to ECA.
  • High recurrence rates of AIN after treatment remain a significant concern in PLWH.
  • Current treatment modalities for AIN have rarely been evaluated in prospective randomized trials.
  • Electrocautery is the most frequently used approach but requires special equipment and trained personnel.

Clinical Implications

Understanding the comparative efficacy of these treatments is essential.

Conclusion

The TECAIN study aims to provide insights into the treatment of AIN in HIV-positive individuals.

Related Resources & Content

  1. Author(s)/Org, Source, Year -- Title
  2. Frontiers in Medicine, 2026 -- Intralesional Vitamin D versus Triamcinolone Acetonide for the Treatment of Keloids: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
  3. Techniques in Coloproctology, 2023 -- Evaluating the Safety, Feasibility, and Short-Term Outcomes of Anal Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection for Treating Anal Intraepithelial Neoplasia: A Potential Approach for Localized Lesions?
  4. Clinicalinfo.hiv.gov -- Human Papillomavirus Disease: Adult and Adolescent OIs | NIH
  5. PubMed, 2023 -- International Anal Neoplasia Society's consensus guidelines for anal cancer screening
  6. Mitigating Surgical Site Infections in Urgent Colorectal Procedures: The Role of Topical Tranexamic Acid
  7. NIH News Release on Anal Cancer Risk Reduction
  8. NYSDOH AI Screening for Anal Dysplasia and Cancer in Adults With HIV
  9. Human Papillomavirus Disease: Adult and Adolescent OIs | NIH
  10. International Anal Neoplasia Society's consensus guidelines for anal cancer screening - PubMed
  11. https://academic.oup.com/cid/article/81/2/333/8044855
  12. What are the benefits and risks of different treatments for anal intraepithelial neoplasia (abnormal cells in the lining of the anus and perianal skin)? | Cochrane
  13. Efficacy and Safety of Anal High‐Grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesion Treatment Modalities: A Systematic Review
  14. Effectiveness of trichloroacetic acid versus electrocautery for the treatment of anal high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions in persons with HIV : Infectious Diseases: Vol 56, No 4
  15. ClinicalTrials.gov

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