Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a type of skin cancer that originates from squamous cells, which are the flat, thin cells that make up the outer layer of the skin. It is the second most common type of skin cancer, after basal cell carcinoma.

What causes Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

Squamous cell carcinoma is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, including:

• Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds
• Age: SCC is more common in older adults
• Fair skin: People with fair skin are more susceptible to SCC
• Weakened immune system: People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or taking immunosuppressive medications, are at higher risk of developing SCC
• Previous radiation therapy: People who have received radiation therapy are at higher risk of developing SCC
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection: Certain types of HPV can increase the risk of developing SCC

Symptoms of Squamous Cell Carcinoma

The symptoms of squamous cell carcinoma may include:

• A firm, red nodule or bump on the skin
• A flat, scaly patch on the skin that may be pink or red
• A sore or ulcer that does not heal
• Bleeding or oozing from a growth or sore
• Itching or tenderness in the affected area
• A growth or sore that grows rapidly or changes color

Types of Squamous Cell Carcinoma

There are several types of squamous cell carcinoma, including:

• In situ SCC: This type of SCC is confined to the outer layer of skin and has not invaded deeper tissues
• Invasive SCC: This type of SCC has invaded deeper tissues and may spread to lymph nodes or other parts of the body
• Keratoacanthoma: This type of SCC is a low-grade, fast-growing tumor that typically resolves on its own
• Spindle cell carcinoma: This type of SCC is a rare, aggressive form of SCC that may spread quickly to other parts of the body

Treatments for Squamous Cell Carcinoma

The treatment for squamous cell carcinoma depends on the size, location, and stage of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health. Treatment options may include:

• Surgical excision: Removing the tumor and a margin of healthy tissue around it
• Mohs surgery: A specialized surgical technique that removes the tumor layer by layer, examining each layer under a microscope until all cancerous cells are removed
• Radiation therapy: Using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells
• Topical creams or ointments: Applying creams or ointments directly to the skin to treat superficial SCC
• Photodynamic therapy: Using a special light to kill cancer cells
• Chemotherapy: Using medications to kill cancer cells that have spread to other parts of the body
• Immunotherapy: Using medications to stimulate the immune system to attack and kill cancer cells

Prevention of Squamous Cell Carcinoma

To reduce the risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma, it is recommended to:

• Avoid exposure to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds
• Use sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30 and reapply every two hours
• Wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and pants, when spending time outdoors
• Seek shade, especially during peak sun hours (10am-4pm)
• Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
• Get regular skin exams to detect any suspicious growths or changes in the skin