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.
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.
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
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 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.
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.
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