What is squamous cell carcinoma of the skin?
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a form of skin cancer that originates in the squamous cells, which are found in the middle and outer layers of the skin. It often appears as firm, red nodules, scaly patches, or open sores that do not heal and can develop on sun-exposed areas of the body.
What causes squamous cell carcinoma?
The primary cause of SCC is long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning devices. Other risk factors include radiation therapy, extremely fair skin, frequent sunburns, a history of precancerous skin lesions, a weakened immune system, and rare genetic disorders like xeroderma pigmentosum. These factors can lead to DNA mutations in squamous cells, resulting in uncontrolled growth.
Where do squamous cell carcinomas usually develop?
SCCs are most commonly found on sun-exposed skin such as the face, ears, neck, lips, and the backs of the hands. However, they can develop anywhere on the body where squamous cells are present.
What are the symptoms of squamous cell carcinoma?
Symptoms of SCC can vary but often include:
- Firm, red nodules
- Flat sores with a scaly crust
- New sores or raised areas on old scars or skin sores
- Rough or scaly red patches that may crust or bleed
- Open sores that ooze or crust and do not heal
- Wart-like growths
- Red sores or rough patches inside the mouth or on the lips
How is squamous cell carcinoma diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves a skin examination and a biopsy of the suspicious lesion. The tissue sample is then analyzed by a pathologist to confirm whether it is SCC and to determine the extent of the cancer.
What treatment options are available for squamous cell carcinoma?
The primary treatment for SCC is surgical excision. At TMSC, our surgeons carefully remove the lesion with proper margins and send the tissue for pathology analysis to ensure complete removal. Other treatments may include radiation therapy or topical medications, depending on the lesion's size, location, and stage.
Why is early treatment of squamous cell carcinoma important?
Early detection and treatment of SCC reduce the risk of complications such as disfigurement, spread to lymph nodes or other organs, and in rare cases, fatal outcomes. Prompt treatment also minimizes the extent of surgery needed and the potential for extensive scarring.
How does TMSC perform squamous cell carcinoma surgery?
At TMSC, we perform careful excision of the squamous cell carcinoma lesion with appropriate margins. The procedure is done in a safe environment with attention to both medical precision and aesthetic outcomes. Surgeries are typically outpatient procedures and are covered by OHIP in Toronto.
What should I expect during recovery from SCC surgery?
Recovery from SCC surgery usually involves wound care, keeping the area clean, and following post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon. TMSC provides guidance on scar management and schedules follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure that the cancer has been completely removed.
