Understanding Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) develops in the squamous cells, the thin, flat cells that make up the outer layer of the skin (epidermis). It is primarily caused by long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds, which damages the skin’s DNA and leads to uncontrolled cell growth.

SCC most commonly appears on sun-exposed areas like the face, ears, neck, hands, and arms, but it can develop anywhere on the body. While SCC is usually not life-threatening when detected early, aggressive cases can spread to deeper tissues, lymph nodes, and even distant organs if left untreated.

Identifying Squamous Cell Carcinoma

SCC doesn’t always look the same, so knowing its common signs can help with early detection.

Symptoms of SCC include:

• A scaly red patch with irregular borders that may bleed easily
• A raised growth with a central depression that may crust over
• A wart-like lump that doesn’t go away
• An open sore that doesn’t heal, or heals and returns
• A rough, scaly patch of skin that may be larger than 1 cm

A dermatologist should check any new growth, sore, or spot that doesn’t heal within a few weeks. Early treatment can prevent SCC from spreading and minimize scarring.

What Causes Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

Several factors can increase the risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma, including:

• Excessive UV exposure: Prolonged sun exposure and tanning bed use enhances risk.
• Fair skin and light features: Those with light skin, red or blonde hair, and blue or green eyes are more susceptible.
• Age and gender: More common in adults over 50 and men.
• History of sunburns: Severe burns, especially in childhood, raise the risk.
• Chronic skin inflammation or injury: Scars from burns, long-term wounds, or ulcers.
• Radiation exposure: Previous radiation therapy can weaken skin defenses.
• Weakened immune system: Due to organ transplant, HIV/AIDS, or immune-suppressing medications.
• HPV infection: Certain strains of human papillomavirus are linked to SCC.
• Smoking: Increases the risk, particularly for SCC on the lips.

While some risk factors can’t be changed, protecting your skin from UV exposure and avoiding tanning beds can significantly reduce the risk of developing SCC.

Treatment Options for Squamous Cell Carcinoma

We specialize in surgical treatment for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), offering the most effective approach for removing cancer with high cure rates. For most SCCs, excisional surgery is the preferred option, ensuring complete removal while preserving healthy skin. Mohs surgery may be recommended for larger or high-risk cases, and reconstructive surgery is available when needed.

While non-surgical treatments exist, surgery remains the gold standard. Our board-certified skin cancer surgeons provide expert care to achieve the best outcomes, and at your consultation, together we’ll decide on the right treatment for you.

Excisional Surgery

Excisional surgery is the most common and effective treatment for squamous cell carcinoma. During this procedure, the surgeon carefully removes the tumor along with a margin of healthy skin to ensure all cancerous cells are eliminated. The excision size depends on the tumor’s location, depth, and aggressiveness. In most cases, stitches or skin grafting may be needed to close the wound and promote proper healing.

This approach is highly effective for most early-stage SCCs. When performed by an experienced surgeon, it offers a high cure rate with minimal risk of recurrence.

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Topical chemotherapy, or creams that target cancer cells
• Photodynamic therapy (PDT), which uses light-sensitive drugs and laser therapy
• Radiation therapy, which uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells; often used when surgery isn’t an option
• Immunotherapy, including medications that stimulate the immune system to fight cancer
• Cryotherapy, which freezes cancerous tissue with liquid nitrogen