Squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) are a common skin cancer affecting cells of your skin called squamous cells. They are at the outermost layer of the skin. Squamous cell carcinoma occurs on skin regularly exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, lips, and hands. It can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated and be life threatening
What is a Squamous cell carcinoma?
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a skin cancer arising from squamous cells, which are flat, thin cells in the outer layer of the skin. It is the second most common form of skin cancer and typically develops on areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, hands, and arms.
Risk factors for squamous cell carcinoma include excessive sun exposure, tanning beds, fair skin, sunburn history, older age, weakened immune system, exposure to chemicals or radiation, and genetic conditions.
Early signs of squamous cell carcinoma include rough patches, scaly skin, persistent sores, raised edges, and mole changes. It often starts as an actinic keratosis. Actinic keratosis is a red scaly patch of the skin occurring after a lot of UV rays exposure.
How are Squamous Cell Carcinomas Diagnosed?
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) diagnosis is made through a combination of clinical examination, biopsy, and histopathological analysis.
During a clinical examination, a healthcare professional will carefully assess any suspicious skin lesions, looking for specific characteristics such as irregular borders, changes in colour or texture, and rapid growth.
If a lesion is suspected to be SCC, a biopsy will be performed. This involves taking a small sample of the lesion for further analysis under a microscope. The biopsy helps confirm the diagnosis of SCC and provides information about the tumour’s characteristics and stage.
Histopathological analysis involves examining the biopsy sample to determine the type of cells involved and the presence of any cancerous changes.
This comprehensive approach ensures an accurate diagnosis of SCC and helps guide appropriate treatment planning. Early detection and diagnosis are crucial for successful management of squamous cell carcinoma.
Causes & Risk Factors for Squamous Cell Carcinomas
Causes & Risk factors for squamous cell cancer
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common skin cancer that can develop due to various risk factors. It includes prolonged exposure to UV radiation, tanning beds, fair skin, age, previous skin damage, weakened immune systems, and exposure to certain chemicals.
Prolonged and unprotected UV exposure damages skin cells’ DNA, leading to genetic mutations that can trigger uncontrolled growth.
Age also increases the risk of squamous cell carcinoma, as cumulative sun exposure over time can have a cumulative effect on the skin.
Other factors contributing to squamous cell carcinoma include sun exposure, tanning beds, fair skin, age, weakened immune systems, and exposure to chemicals or radiation. It also includes patients on long-term immunosuppressive drugs, such as patients who had an organ transplant.
While having one or more risk factors doesn’t guarantee a person will develop Squamous cell carcinoma or another skin cancer, it is crucial to take preventive measures, such as practising sun protection, avoiding tanning beds, and regularly monitoring the skin for changes or suspicious lesions.
Treatment For Squamous Cell Carcinomas
The treatment for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) depends on various factors such as the size, location, and stage of the tumour, as well as the overall health of the patient.
Common treatment options for SCC include:
1. Surgical excision:
This involves removing the tumour and a margin of healthy tissue surrounding it. It is often the primary treatment for localised SCC.
2. Mohs surgery:
This specialised surgical technique is used for larger or recurrent SCC tumours. It involves removing the tumour layer by layer, with immediate microscopic examination to ensure complete removal of abnormal cells while preserving healthy tissue.
3. Radiation therapy:
High-energy X-rays or other forms of radiation are used to destroy cancer cells. Radiation therapy may be recommended for SCC in areas where surgery is difficult or for cases that have a high risk of recurrence.
4. Electrodessication and curettage:
This procedure involves scraping off the tumour using a curette and then cauterising the area with an electric needle. It is typically used for certain cases of superficial SCC called Intra-Epidermal Carcinoma (IEC)s or Bowen’s disease.
5. Topical treatments:
For certain cases of superficial SCC called Intra-Epidermal Carcinoma (IEC)or Bowen’s disease, topical medications such as creams or gels containing chemotherapy drugs or immune response modifiers may be prescribed.
6. Cryotherapy:
In this technique, the tumour is frozen with liquid nitrogen, causing the cancer cells to die. Cryotherapy is often used for certain cases of superficial SCC called Intra-Epidermal Carcinoma (IEC).
The choice of treatment will be determined by a thorough evaluation of the individual case and discussion between the patient and their healthcare team.
Treatment for Squamous Cell Carcinoma that Spreads
When squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) spreads beyond its original site, it is considered advanced or metastatic Squamous cell carcinoma.
The treatment options for metastatic Squamous cell carcinoma depend on various factors, including the extent of the cancer, the location of metastasis, and the overall health of the individual. Here are some common treatment approaches to treat squamous cell carcinoma:
1. Surgery:
In some cases, surgical removal of the metastatic lesions and lymph nodes may be considered if they are limited and can be safely removed. This approach aims to eliminate the cancerous cells and lymph nodes and reduce symptoms.
2. Radiation therapy:
High-energy beams are used to target and destroy cancer cells in specific areas where metastasis has occurred. Radiation therapy can help alleviate pain, control bleeding, and shrink tumours.
3. Systemic therapy:
This involves the use of medications that can travel throughout new cells in the body to target and kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy are examples of systemic treatments used for metastatic SCC. They may be used alone or in combination, depending on the specific characteristics of the cancer.
4. Palliative care:
Even if the cancer cannot be cured, palliative care can help manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and provide emotional support. It focuses on pain management, symptom control, and addressing the overall well-being of the patient.
The treatment approach for metastatic squamous cell carcinoma is typically individualised based on the patient’s specific situation, and may involve a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including oncologists, surgeons, radiation oncologists, and supportive care specialists.
What are the side effects of the treatments for squamous cell carcinoma?
The side effects of treatments for treating squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) can vary depending on the specific treatment modality used. Here are some common side effects associated with different SCC treatments:
1. Surgery:
Potential side effects of surgery for squamous cell carcinoma may include pain, swelling, bleeding, infection at the surgical site, scarring, and limited range of motion if the surgery involves joints or muscles. In some cases, reconstructive surgery may be required, which can have its own side effects.
2. Radiation therapy:
Side effects of radiation therapy for squamous cell carcinoma may include skin irritation, redness, dryness, and peeling in the treated area. Fatigue, temporary hair loss in the radiation field, and changes in skin pigmentation are also possible. In some cases, radiation therapy can affect nearby organs, affected tissue or tissues developing skin with cancer cells, leading to specific side effects related to those areas.
3. Systemic therapy:
The side effects of systemic treatments like chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and other immunotherapy drugs can vary depending on the specific drugs used. Common side effects may include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, hair loss, decreased appetite, changes in taste, diarrhoea, constipation, weakened immune system, increased risk of infections, and potential organ-specific toxicities.
It’s important to note that not all individuals will experience the same side effects, and the severity of side effects can vary. Healthcare providers will closely monitor patients during treatment and provide supportive care to manage and minimise side effects. Open communication with the healthcare team is crucial to address any concerns and ensure appropriate management of side effects throughout the treatment journey.
Conclusion
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common skin cancer arising from squamous cells in the outermost layer of the skin. It is often linked to excessive sun exposure and can develop on other areas.
Squamous cell carcinoma typically presents as a scaly, rough, or crusty patch, which can develop into a persistent sore, reddish or pinkish bump, or ulcerated lesion. Early detection and treatment are crucial for successful outcomes.
Treatment options include surgical removal, Mohs surgery, radiation therapy, electrodessication, cryosurgery and topical medications.
Preventative measures include protecting the skin from sun exposure, using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and regularly examining the skin for changes or lesions. Seeking prompt medical attention for persistent or evolving skin abnormalities is essential for early diagnosis and treatment.
FAQ
Squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) survival rates vary depending on factors among skin cancer types like the skin cancer’s location, stage at diagnosis, patient’s overall health, and treatment. Localised Squamous cell carcinomas has a high five-year survival rate of 80% to 95%, while metastasised Squamous cell carcinoma has a lower survival rate of 40% to 70%. Advancements in medical treatments continue to improve outcomes for most Squamous cell skin carcinomas patients. Regular follow-up care and skin examinations are essential to monitor potential recurrence or new skin cancers. Protecting the skin from excessive sun exposure and using appropriate sun protection measures can also reduce the risk of developing Squamous cell carcinoma and other skin cancers.
Squamous cell carcinoma or squamous cell skin cancer (SCC) is a severe skin cancer that can invade deeper tissues and spread to distant organs. Its severity depends on factors like tumour location, growth rate, and spread. Early diagnosis and treatment have a good prognosis with high cure rates. However, untreated or advanced SCC can cause significant damage and be more challenging to treat.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common skin cancer originating from squamous cells in the outermost layer. It can show signs like persistent changes, pre-existing lesions, and ulceration or bleeding. Consult a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and treatment if abnormalities are suspected.
Yes, squamous cell carcinoma and squamous cell skin cancers (SCC) can often be cured, especially if detected and successfully treated in the early stages developing skin cancer. The chances of successful treatment and cure depend on several factors, including the size and location of the tumor, its aggressiveness, and the overall health of the individual.