What is a Squamous Cell Carcinoma?
Squamous Cell Carcinomas (SCCs) are the second most common form of skin cancer, following Basal Cell Carcinomas. Approximately 20,000 cases occur in the UK per year. SCCs can occur on precancerous lesions such Actinic Keratosis and Bowen’s disease, or arise de novo.
Who is at risk of Squamous Cell Carcinoma?
SCC is more likely to occur in the following groups of people:
- Over 50’s
- Outdoor workers or those with outdoor hobbies
- Fair skin, light hair and light eyes
- Excessive sun exposure including during childhood, on holidays and on sunbeds
- Previous sun burns
What are the signs of Squamous Cell Carcinoma?
SCC usually present as red lumps that grow over a matter of 2 to 12 weeks. They sometimes develop a central crater that may harbour a plug of skin. They eventually ulcerate and become crusty. Repeated bleeding and scabbing is common when this occurs. Some SCCs look like ulcers.
All SCCs have roots that extend beyond the visible elements of the tumour, much like the roots of a weed. If only the surface of a weed is removed, then it will grow back. This also applies to SCCs.
What can I do to reduce my chance of developing Squamous Cell Carcinoma?
It is important to take sensible precautions about the sun, and to avoid burning at all costs and to keep tanning to a minimum. More advice on sun protection can be obtained here.
What should I do if I think I have a Squamous Cell Carcinoma or if I want to get my skin checked?
If you have any lesions that look irregular or crusty, or that are changing in size, shape or colour, or if you would like a head-to-toe check of your skin by an expert, then arrange to Dr Martin-Clavijo. We offer a full skin cancer screening service.
What is the treatment for Squamous Cell Carcinoma?
The main treatment is surgical excision. The SCC and a predetermined safety margin of normal skin surrounding the growth is excised. This is important as if any roots are left behind, then there is a chance that the SCC may regrow.
The most accurate form of surgery for SCC is Mohs Micrographic Surgery. With Mohs Surgery, the specimen of skin is removed and analysed under the microscope to ensure all the roots are removed. If any roots remain, then further skin is obtained in only those areas which are involved. This permits complete tumour clearance and sparing of unaffected skin. Dr Martin-Clavijo one of the few Dermatologists in the UK offering this highly advanced technique for skin cancer treatment.
What is the outlook for someone who has had Squamous Cell Carcinomas?
The prognosis (outlook) after a Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the skin depends on several factors. Tumours that are small (less than 2cm wide), and well differentiated under the microscope are unlikely to recur or to spread. In fact, less than 5% of these sorts of tumours return once definitive surgical treatment is carried out. On the other hand, large tumours (more than 2cm wide) which are poorly differentiated under the microscope have a higher risk of either returning in the skin or in nearby lymph nodes. Such tumours have a 15-30% chance of recurring.
Links
British Association of Dermatologists