Squamous Cell Carcinoma (Skin) – Symptoms, Treatment & Support

What is Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

It is the second most common type of skin cancer. It is also referred to as cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma or squamous cell skin cancer. It is usually in the form of a hard lump with a scaly top but often becomes ulcerated. It has a gradual onset and develops over several months. It has a higher tendency for distant metastases than other types of skin cancer. It can develop anywhere in the body, but it most often develops in areas of the skin that remain exposed to the ultraviolet radiation of the sun like face, neck, arms, and legs.

Disease Etiology (Causes)

The most known causes are exposure to ultraviolet sunlight, lighter skin tone, prior radiation therapy, long-term exposure to arsenic, long-term exposure and skin burns from tanning beds, having low immunity, prior scars, chronic non-healed wounds, previous history of basal cell skin cancer, certain diseases like Bowen’s disease and actinic keratosis and Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.

Disease Epidemiology

The global incidence of squamous cell carcinoma is increasing. The latest estimates indicate that there are between 180,000 and 400,000 cases in the United States of America. The incidence of squamous cell carcinoma increases with age, and the average age at onset is 60 years. Men have a higher incidence of squamous cell skin cancer than women. Caucasians and fair-skinned people are more affected than coloured and dark-skinned people 

Signs and Symptoms

The SCC of the skin starts as a small nodule, and after enlarging, it turns into an ulcer. In most cases, the lesion or swelling does not show symptoms. It is a slow-growing skin ulcer or plaque. The swelling often bleeds, especially on the lip, the sores on the lips do not heal easily and bleeds repeatedly. Squamous cell carcinoma usually develops in areas exposed to the sun.

Diagnosis

 The following diagnostic test and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis.

• Skin biopsy for histopathological examination

Treatment

Reducing UV exposure and using sunscreen are effective ways to prevent squamous cell skin cancer. Treatment is usually done with surgery. It can be simple surgical removal of tumour tissue if the cancer is small, otherwise Mohs surgery is usually recommended. Other options may include cold cryotherapy (It is a type of surgery that uses intense cold to kill tumour cells) and radiation therapy. In patients in whom the tumour has spread to distant organs and parts of the body, chemotherapy or biological therapy may be used.               

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What Support can we Give for Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

Squamous Cell Carcinoma is a rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Squamous Cell Carcinoma, we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!

You can help us with your donation:

Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways: Donations — Without a Ribbon is grateful when we receive every donation. Giving to Without a Ribbon helps us to provide ongoing support, organise the annual gathering and subsidise the costs of our Warriors attending these conferences. Sponsorship — If you wish to sponsor our charity, please contact us using this form. Volunteering — We are always looking for volunteers to help with different aspects of running our charity. So, if you are looking for volunteer work, please feel free to contact us.                                                                                        ​