Treatment of Squamous Cell Carcinoma

What is Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type of skin cancer that develops as a result of the overproduction of squamous cells. This type of skin cancer begins in the lower part of the epidermis, which is the top layer of skin. Exposing your skin to ultraviolet (UV) rays increases your likelihood of developing skin cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma often begins in the areas of the body that receive the most sun exposure, like your head, arms and legs. SCC is classified into two main types:

Cutaneous: This type of SCC affects only the outermost layer of the skin and does not spread to other parts of the body.
Metastatic: This type of SCC can spread beyond the skin to other parts of the body.

What are the risk factors for squamous cell carcinoma?

Squamous cell carcinoma is most commonly diagnosed in people over the age of 65. Men are two times more likely to develop SCC, but the incident rate has been rising in people younger than 50 years old. Factors that can raise the risk of squamous cell carcinoma include:

Chronic sun exposure.
Having a pale complexion, blue or green eyes, blonde or red hair.
Having a weak immune system or having received an organ transplant.
Had chemical exposure (cigarettes, arsenic).

How do I lower my risk for squamous cell carcinoma?

Squamous cell carcinoma and other skin cancers can often be prevented with simple precautions. To reduce your risk of SCC, consider the following steps:

Stay out of the sun during the middle of the day.
Wear sunscreen year-round.
Wear protective clothing.
Do not use tanning beds.
Check skin often for changes.

How is squamous cell carcinoma diagnosed?

Squamous cell carcinoma typically appears on sun-exposed skin. A dermatologist is typically the one to diagnose skin diseases like squamous cell carcinoma. Your healthcare provider will provide a full-body skin exam to assess for skin lesions. If the healthcare provider suspects a squamous cell carcinoma diagnosis, he will likely order a skin biopsy to check for cancer cells.

What are the signs of squamous cell carcinoma?

Squamous cell carcinoma first appears on sun-exposed areas of skin. Signs of squamous cell carcinoma may include:

A rough-feeling bump or growth, which might crust over like a scab.
A growth that is higher than the sin but sinks down in the middle.
A wound or sore that will not heal and keeps coming back.
A large area of the skin that is red and scaly, measuring about 1 inch.
White or pale spots in the month, on the tongue, or on the gums or cheeks.

The signs of squamous cell carcinoma are typically found on parts of the body that are exposed to the sun. The most common places for SCC include:

Skin.
Mouth, tongue, and throat (oral carcinoma).
Face, lips, nose, ears, eyelids, and scalp.
Hands, arms, and legs.

What causes squamous cell carcinoma?

Squamous cell carcinoma occurs when skin cells develop changes in their DNA. A mutation to the p53 gene causes squamous cell carcinoma. The most common way the p53 gene mutation is through ultraviolet (UV) exposure from the sun or from using outdoor tanning beds. The p53 gene mutation gives different instructions that cause the squamous cells to grow and multiply at a faster rate. These overproduction of squamous cells may form a mass called a tumor (bumps, lumps, or lesions). Squamous cells can even begin to invade and spread to other parts of the body. Although it is rare for skin cancers, SCC can metastasis and spread to other parts of the body.

What are treatment options for squamous cell carcinoma?

Treatments for squamous cell carcinoma will vary based on the type of tumor, the size, and location. You and your cancer care team will work together to decide on the best, personalized treatment plan for you.