Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a very common type of skin cancer. This form of skin cancer tends to grow slowly, but it can develop more rapidly in some cases. The appearance of these growths can range from rough, scaly patches to horn-like lesions.
When found early, squamous cell carcinoma is highly treatable by specialists like those at Goodskin Dermatology. Read on to learn more about this common skin cancer’s symptoms, causes, and treatments.
What Is Squamous Cell Carcinoma?
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common skin cancer. The Skin Cancer Foundation reports 1.8 million people in the U.S. receive this diagnosis every year. This number translates to 205 new cases every hour.
This cancer occurs when skin cells begin to grow abnormally. The cancerous growths appear most frequently in areas that are exposed to direct sunlight. The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) highlights these areas as common locations for this skin cancer:
- Face
- Nose
- Ears
- Lips
- Neck
- Back of the hands
Less frequently, it can appear around or under the nails, in the mouth or anus, or on the genitals.
According to The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, squamous cell carcinoma is different from other skin cancer types in the following ways:
- Basal cell carcinoma is the most common skin cancer and overall type of cancer. It is generally slow-growing and easy to treat with surgical removal. Basal cell carcinoma often appears pink or translucent.
- Squamous cell carcinoma is the next most common skin cancer. It is more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma, but less aggressive than melanoma. As a result, SCC skin cancer is still treatable with surgical removal.
- Melanoma has the potential to be the most aggressive and often appears as a dark or multi-colored mole. Unlike the other two types that can be caused by sun exposure, melanoma tends to have a genetic component.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma Symptoms
Squamous cell carcinoma can vary in appearance. For example, it can present as rough, scaly patches in some patients and as wart-like growths in others. According to the AAD, the following skin changes can be signs of squamous cell carcinoma:
- Rough, red, scaly patch
- Firm, dome-shaped skin growth
- Sore spot with raised skin around it
- Sore that won’t heal or keeps coming back
- Wart-like or horn-like growth
A change to an existing scar, as well as pain, numbness, itching, or tenderness, can also be symptoms of SCC skin cancer. Scabbing and bleeding can also occur.
Stages of SCC Skin Cancer
Dermatologists classify squamous cell carcinoma by stage to help determine the best way to treat it. According to the Cleveland Clinic, there are five stages of squamous cell carcinoma, including:
- Stage 0 is when the cancer is only in the top layer of skin (epidermis).
- Stage 1 occurs when the cancer is in the top and middle layers of skin (epidermis and dermis).
- Stage 2 is when cancer also reaches the nerves or deeper skin layers (epidermis, dermis, and subcutis)
- Stage 3 refers to skin cancer that has spread to the lymph nodes.
- Stage 4 is when skin cancer has spread to other body parts and organs.
The good news is that prompt diagnosis and treatment can help prevent SCC skin cancer from progressing.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma Causes and Risk Factors
Many things can cause squamous cell carcinoma, including unprotected and regular sun exposure, injury, and chronic inflammation. Additionally, SCC cancer can arise from precancerous growths called actinic keratoses. It’s also important to know that this cancer can also affect undamaged skin, according to MedlinePlus (NIH).
Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing squamous cell carcinoma. Some are possible to control, while others are not. The National Cancer Institute highlights the following risk factors of SCC skin cancer:
- Unprotected ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure from the sun or tanning booths
- Weakened immune system
- History of skin cancer or actinic keratosis
- Chronic infections and skin inflammation
- History of human papillomavirus (HPV)
- Over age 50
- Light skin
Also, men are more likely than women to develop squamous cell carcinoma.
How Is Squamous Cell Carcinoma Diagnosed?
If you have a growth or spot on your skin that concerns you, it is wise to have a dermatologist examine it. According to the AAD, skin specialists use several techniques to diagnose squamous cell carcinoma.
- The first step is a full-body skin evaluation and lesion check. During this visual exam, your dermatologist will use a special tool called a dermatoscope to carefully examine your entire body, paying close attention to any areas of concern.
- If the dermatologist is concerned about an area, they will numb the skin and then remove a sample of the spot or growth. This skin biopsy will be sent away for testing to determine if skin cancer is present.
- If the biopsy comes back positive for SCC or another type of skin cancer, your dermatologist can recommend a customized plan to treat the cancer.
Treatment Options at Goodskin Dermatology
With proper diagnosis and skin cancer treatment, most squamous cell carcinomas can be successfully treated. Squamous cell carcinoma treatment varies depending on the size, location, and depth of the growth.
Goodskin Dermatology offers comprehensive skin cancer treatment, including the following treatment options that are recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation:
- Excision surgery uses a scalpel to remove the entire growth and “safety margin” of normal tissue around the lesion. If the SCC growth is small and hasn’t spread, only excision is required.
- Curettage and electrodesiccation can also treat small growths that haven’t yet spread. It involves shaving away the SCC and then using heat or chemicals to destroy the remaining cancer.
- Mohs surgery removes the tumor in stages and is the most effective technique, treating up to 97% of tumors the first time. It is recommended for small areas that are functionally important or easily seen, including the eyes, noses, lips, ears, fingers, and genitals.
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT) requires a dermatologist to apply a special substance to the skin before using strong red or blue light to kill the cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue. It is recommended for superficial growths on the face or scalp.
- Topical medications like imiquimod can be applied directly to the affected skin to treat superficial SCC with little risk of developing scars.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a skin lesion is squamous cell carcinoma?
If you have a strange growth on your skin, it is best to visit a dermatologist. They can use tools like a lesion check and skin biopsies to make a definitive diagnosis.
Can squamous cell carcinoma spread to other parts of the body?
Yes, if left untreated, squamous cell carcinoma can spread to other body parts and organs. However, early diagnosis and treatment can often treat SCC skin cancer and prevent it from spreading.
Is squamous cell carcinoma curable?
Yes, when diagnosed and treated early, squamous cell carcinoma is typically curable.
How often should I get a skin cancer screening?
Most people should get a skin cancer screening once a year. However, screening may need to be more frequent for those with a higher risk of skin cancer due to their family or medical history.
See a Dermatologist at Goodskin Dermatology
Squamous cell cancer is most treatable when it is diagnosed early. Whether you want to be proactive with a full-body skin evaluation or want to have a specific area examined, Goodskin Dermatology invites you to schedule an appointment.
Our convenient Portland-area locations in Clackamas, Hillsboro, Beaverton, and Troutdale offer the ability to diagnose and treat skin cancer. With help from our experienced and caring dermatologists, you can enjoy healthy skin and peace of mind.
