Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type of skin cancer, with basal cell carcinoma (BCC) being the most common.

SCC is a type of non-melanoma skin cancer that typically arises in sun-exposed skin, but can also form in areas that are not typically exposed to sunlight.

What is Squamous Skin Carcinoma?

Squamous skin carcinoma is a type of cancer that affects the epidermal cells of the skin. The condition starts as a precancerous lesion known as actinic keratosis.

When this lesion is left untreated, it can progress into SCC, which can then develop into invasive SCC.

The most common cause of SCC is a history of sun exposure. People who spend a lot of time in the sun, or who use tanning beds, are at increased risk of developing the condition.

Other risk factors include a personal or family history of skin cancer, exposure to radiation, and having a weakened immune system.

Treatments for Squamous Skin Carcinoma

The goal of treatment for SCC is to remove the cancer. There are several treatment options available, depending on the size and location of the tumor, as well as other factors such as the patient’s age and overall health.

These treatment options include:.

: Surgical Excision

This is the most common treatment for SCC. The tumor is removed along with a small amount of healthy tissue surrounding it. The tissue is then sent to a laboratory to confirm that all of the cancerous cells have been removed.

The size of the excision depends on the size and location of the tumor, as well as the margins of the tumor.

: Mohs Surgery

This is an advanced surgical technique used to treat SCC that is located on the face, neck, or other areas where preserving healthy tissue is important.

The surgeon removes the tumor layer by layer, examining each layer under a microscope until no cancerous cells are found. This minimizes the amount of healthy tissue that is removed.

: Electrodessication and Curettage

This is a procedure that involves scraping the tumor with a sharp, spoon-like tool, and then burning the remaining cancerous tissue with an electric needle. This procedure is commonly used to treat small, superficial tumors.

: Cryotherapy

This is a procedure that involves freezing the tumor with liquid nitrogen. This is an effective treatment for small, superficial tumors.

: Radiation Therapy

This treatment involves using high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It is commonly used for people who cannot undergo surgical treatment, or for those who have tumors that are difficult to remove.

: Chemotherapy

This is a treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It is typically reserved for advanced cases of SCC that have spread to other parts of the body.

Side Effects of Treatment

Like any cancer treatment, there are potential side effects associated with the various treatments used for SCC. Some common side effects of treatment include:.

Pain and discomfort at the site of the excision
Infection
Bleeding
Itching
Scarring
Changes in skin color and texture
Skin sensitivity

Preventing Squamous Skin Carcinoma

The best way to prevent SCC is to protect your skin from sun exposure. This includes wearing protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and hats, and using sunscreen with at least SPF 30.

Avoiding tanning beds and staying out of the sun during peak UV hours (between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.) can also help reduce your risk of developing SCC.

Conclusion

Squamous skin carcinoma is a common type of non-melanoma skin cancer that typically arises in sun-exposed skin. The best way to prevent SCC is to protect your skin from sun exposure.

If you have been diagnosed with SCC, there are several treatment options available, including surgical excision, Mohs surgery, electrodessication and curettage, cryotherapy, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. With proper treatment, SCC can be effectively treated, reducing the size and number of tumors.