Does Mounjaro Affect Fertility?
Understanding Mounjaro and Its UsesMounjaro is a prescription medication commonly prescribed for managing type 2 diabetes. It belongs to a class of drugs that help regulate [...]
Read MoreUnderstanding Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Medically reviewed by Jerome Albert Ecker | MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Duke University - Durham, NC on August 17th, 2023.
Key Takeaways
- This second most common skin cancer arises from squamous cells in the epidermis, with over 1 million cases diagnosed annually in the US, primarily affecting adults over 50.
- Cumulative UV exposure creates DNA damage over decades—people who burn easily, have light eyes/hair, or received organ transplants face 65-250 times higher risk than the general population.
- Suspicious lesions include persistent scaly patches larger than 6mm, non-healing sores present for 6+ weeks, or horn-like growths that bleed when touched.
- Mohs micrographic surgery offers 99% cure rates for primary tumors by examining 100% of surgical margins, compared to 95% success with standard excision.
- Monthly self-exams should focus on previously sun-damaged areas, using the ABCDE rule—Asymmetry, Border irregularity, Color variation, Diameter >6mm, and Evolving characteristics.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common type of skin cancer that develops in the squamous cells, which make up the outer layer of your skin. SCC is often linked to sun damage and can appear anywhere on your body. Although it is a fairly slow-growing cancer, SCC can spread to nearby tissues, bones, and lymph nodes if left untreated.
Symptoms of Squamous Cell Carcinoma
SCC typically appears on sun-exposed areas of the body, such as the head, neck, chest, upper back, ears, lips, arms, legs, and hands. In people with darker skin, SCC may develop on areas that receive less sun exposure. Symptoms of SCC can include:
A rough, scaly, red patch of skin
An open sore with or without raised edges
A brown spot resembling an age spot
A wart-like growth
A small, horn-like growth
A sore growing in an old scar
SCC can also develop inside the mouth, appearing as a smooth or sore reddish-white patch. In some cases, SCC may cause itching, tenderness, or numbness in the affected area.
Causes and Risk Factors
The primary cause of SCC is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or indoor tanning beds. Over time, UV rays can damage the skin and lead to the uncontrolled growth of squamous cells. While anyone can develop SCC, certain factors can increase your risk, including:
Fair skin, blue, green, or gray eyes, and blonde or red hair
History of sunburns, precancerous skin spots, or skin cancer
Weakened immune system due to conditions like HIV or AIDS
Long-term exposure to chemicals such as arsenic
Tobacco use and heavy alcohol consumption
Diagnosis and Staging
To diagnose SCC, your doctor or dermatologist will examine the affected area, review your medical history, and ask about your symptoms. If the spot appears suspicious, they may perform a skin biopsy to collect a sample for laboratory testing. Imaging tests, such as CT scans or MRIs, may be used to determine if cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
SCC is staged based on the extent of cancer spread. Stage 0 indicates that cancer cells are only in the top layer of the skin, while stage IV means that cancer has spread to other organs.
Treatment Options
Treatment for SCC depends on the size, location, and stage of the cancer. For small, early-stage tumors, treatment options may include:
Curettage and electrodessication (C and E)
Laser therapy
Photodynamic therapy
Cryosurgery
Excision
Mohs surgery
For more advanced cases, treatment may involve lymph node surgery, topical chemotherapy, targeted drug treatment, or radiation therapy.
Prevention and Early Detection
To reduce your risk of developing SCC, protect your skin from UV exposure by seeking shade, wearing protective clothing, and using broad-spectrum sunscreen daily. Avoid tanning beds and regularly check your skin for any new growths or changes in existing moles, freckles, or birthmarks. If you notice anything suspicious, contact your doctor promptly.
Early detection and treatment of SCC are crucial for the best possible outcome. When caught early, SCC has a 5-year survival rate of 99%. By being proactive about sun protection and skin health, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing this common form of skin cancer.
Additional Resources
The Bottom Line
Early-stage squamous cell carcinoma has excellent cure rates above 95%, but delayed treatment allows potential spread to lymph nodes and distant organs. Perform monthly skin checks and seek immediate evaluation for any persistent, changing, or non-healing skin lesions. If you've noticed suspicious growths or changes in existing spots, Doctronic can help you get prompt answers about your skin concerns.
Related Articles
Hydrocortisone Dosage Guide: How Much to Take and When (With Chart)
Understanding Hydrocortisone Uses and DosagesHydrocortisone is a versatile medication primarily used to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune system in various [...]
Read MoreZepbound vs. Mounjaro: 7 Differences to Know
Understanding Zepbound and MounjaroWhen managing type 2 diabetes, patients often face a variety of medication options. Zepbound and Mounjaro are two such options gaining [...]
Read More