CONDITIONS
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
What is squamous cell carcinoma?
Squamous cell carcinoma is one of the most prevalent forms of skin cancer due to a mutation within the squamous cells. Squamous cells are flat in appearance and remain near the skin’s surface. These types of cells shed while new ones develop.
Squamous cell carcinoma arises due to DNA damage as a result of chronic ultraviolet radiation exposure.
What causes squamous cell carcinoma?
Squamous cell carcinoma occurs due to persistent exposure to ultraviolet rays. Ultraviolet radiation is traced in sunlight and commercial tanning beds and lamps.
In addition, other factors can contribute to the development of squamous cell carcinoma, such as the following:
- Light-coloured hair or eyes
- Chronic sun exposure
- History of sunburn
- History of precancerous skin lesions in the family
- A weak immune system due to lymphoma or leukaemia and other compromising, immunosuppressant health conditions
What are the related symptoms?
Symptoms of squamous cell carcinoma include the following:
- Red, scaly patches of skin
- Open sores
- Dense wart-like skin
- Elevated growths
- Itchy or bleeding skin
- Crusting
- Uncommon genetic conditions that increase the skin’s light sensitivity
What are the possible treatment options for squamous cell carcinoma?
Minor surgery or topical medical treatment can be used to treat squamous cell carcinoma. The ideal treatment depends on the size, stage and location of the skin cancer.
Treatments for squamous cell carcinoma include the following:
- Cryosurgery involves freezing abnormal tissue using liquid nitrogen. Cryosurgery can begin after removing the top layer of the affected skin using a curette, also known as a scraping tool.
- Photodynamic therapy utilises a combination of light and photosensitive medications to treat types of superficial skin cancer
- Skin excision is used for larger squamous cell carcinomas. As a result, your dermatologist surgically removes the affected skin and a healthy tissue margin. A wide excision which involves removing surrounding skin, reduces scarring.
- Mohs surgery removes layers of skin. Then, each layer of the affected skin is examined to check for residual cancer cells.
Treatment for squamous cell carcinoma depends on various factors such as the location, size and extent of damage from the cancer.
Untreated squamous cell carcinoma can disfigure the skin and become dangerous.
First, skin cancer can present as rough or scaly red patches on parts of the skin. If you notice any significant changes to your skin, you must book an appointment with your dermatologist.
Yes, fortunately, squamous cell carcinoma can be cured if found early enough.
