Squamous Cell Carcinoma

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What is it?

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common form of skin cancer, developing in the squamous cells that make up the outer layer of the skin. It typically appears as a firm, red bump, scaly patch or an open sore that doesn’t heal. SCC often develops in areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, neck, hands and arms, but it can also form in other areas of the body. While SCC is more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma, it is still highly treatable when detected early.

If left untreated, SCC can grow deeper into the skin or spread to other parts of the body, but it rarely causes life-threatening issues if caught in its early stages.

How is it treated?

To determine if your squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) has progressed, our medical professionals will carefully examine the affected area. If the lesion appears suspicious, we will perform a quick biopsy, which involves numbing the area and removing a small sample of the tissue for analysis. This sample will be tested to determine whether the tissue is benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), and to identify the type of squamous cell carcinoma and any factors that may indicate aggressive behavior. Treatment options for SCC depend on its size, location, and depth, and may include:

• Surgical excision: The tumor and a small margin of healthy tissue are removed. This is the most common and effective method for SCC.
• Mohs Micrographic Surgery: For SCCs in sensitive areas or larger tumors, Mohs surgery may be recommended to remove the cancer layer by layer, ensuring all cancerous cells are excised while preserving healthy tissue.
• Cryotherapy (freezing): Small, superficial SCCs may be treated with cryotherapy, which freezes the tumor with liquid nitrogen, causing it to fall off as the skin heals.
• Topical treatments: Certain medications or creams can treat early-stage SCCs, particularly when the cancer is localized and small.

Early detection and treatment are key to preventing SCC from spreading. If you notice any unusual changes in your skin, it’s essential to consult with a dermatologist promptly.