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Definition

Squamous cell carcinoma of the skin is the second most common form of skin cancer. Basal cell carcinoma is the most common form. However, squamous cell carcinoma is more common in African Americans.

The name “squamous” comes from the cells where the cancer grows. These cells are in the uppermost layer of skin cells. Squamous cell carcinoma usually grows slowly. In some cases it can grow fast and spread to other tissues in the body, usually initially through lymph nodes. It is rarely fatal if treated early, but can be lethal if it spreads beyond the skin.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

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Causes

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light through time spent in the sun is known as the primary cause of squamous cell carcinoma. However, the growth results from a combination of sun exposure and genes that make developing the cancers more likely. Squamous cell carcinoma can also grow where the skin has been damaged by a burn, a long-standing wound, been exposed to certain chemicals, or been exposed to radiation.

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition.

The following factors increase your chance of developing squamous cell carcinoma:

  • Increasing age
  • Childhood sunburns]]> , freckling, or long periods of sun exposure
  • Fair skin that rarely tans
  • Blue or green eyes
  • Blonde or red hair
  • A family history of skin cancer
  • A personal history of skin cancer
  • Treatment that suppresses the immune system, such as that prescribed for people who have had an organ transplant
  • Swallowing arsenic
  • History of radiation or ultraviolet light treatment
  • Frequent use of tanning beds

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Symptoms

Symptoms include:

  • A raised red patch that is scaly or rough
  • A raised patch of skin that may appear to have horn-like rough edges
  • In color, the patch may be reddish, pink, flesh-colored, or reddish-brown
  • Poorly defined outline, with some satellite growths
  • A long-standing sore that will not heal with simple at-home treatment

Diagnosis

The diagnosis will probably be made by a doctor who specializes in skin care, called a dermatologist. The dermatologist will look at the skin growth and take a sample, called a biopsy]]> , to test for cancerous cells. The doctor will then decide on a treatment plan based on the size, growth, subtype, and location of the tumor.

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Treatment

Treatment includes:

  • Mohs micrographic surgery—microscopically controlled surgery that offers the best cure rate for squamous cell carcinoma
  • Removing the growth with simple surgery
  • Freezing the growth off with liquid nitrogen
  • Radiotherapy, also known as radiation therapy]]>
  • Photodynamic therapy in which the cells absorb an acid that causes them to die when exposed to light
  • Creams, especially ]]>fluorouracil]]> (5-FU) or ]]>imiquimod]]>
  • Plastic surgery to repair any cosmetic problems that occur after treatment

Prevention

The following are ways to decrease your chance of developing squamous cell carcinoma:

  • Reduce sun exposure by wearing sunscreen, long sleeves and slacks, and hats.
  • Stay out of the sun during the midday hours.
  • People who ski and enjoy other winter sports should be aware that UV light is stronger at higher elevations, and should take precautions (eg, wearing sunscreen).
  • At-risk adults should examine themselves monthly and get an annual full-body exam by a dermatologist to check for moles, freckles, and other growths.
  • Limit sun exposure/tanning for children and teens.
  • Learn to recognize early squamous cell carcinoma and seek treatment.