Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)
It affects the squamous cells which form the major part of the skin. Squamous cell carcinomas may develop in any area of the skin, including the oral and genital mucosa.
However, they are mostly identified in areas exposed to the sun (auricle of the ear, lower lip, face, the bald spots of the hair, head, hands, arms and lower feet).
Fair-skinned people with blond hair and blue, green or grey eyes, people with a history of prolonged exposure to the sun as well as people working outdoors or spend long periods under the sun are members of the high risk group. Men are twice as likely as women to develop Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC). It usually occurs in people into their 70s.
Chronic exposure to solar radiation is the cause of most cases of Squamous Cell Carcinoma. The use of artificial methods of tanning (tanning beds, solarium) also doubles the risk of being affected. Skin injuries can be an additional cause. Cancer may occur in burns, scars, chronic wounds and areas of the body that have been exposed to radiation or chemicals.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) presents as a persistent, thick, rough scaly lesion that may bleed if hit accidentally. It often looks like a papilloma and sometimes presents as an open sore with raised edges and crusts on the surface or covering a raised unclean base.
If the squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is identified at an early stage, it i almost always curable and if damage has been caused, this is usually negligible. If not, it can cause additional harm to surrounding tissues, it can metastasize to remote areas and could even prove lethal. diagnosis is made using biopsy and microscopic examination.
There are several effective methods to eliminate squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), depending on the type, the size, the identification area, the depth of the tumour, the patient’s age and general health condition. Some of these methods are cited are the following:
- MOHS micrographic surgery
- Surgical removal
- Curretage and electrodissecation (Cauterization)
- Radiation therapy
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT)
- Cryosurgery
- Surgical ablation
- Topical application of medication
Prevention is the best cure. Look after your skin to prevent problems from occurring at a later stage. Avoid the sun, particularly during the hours of intense solar radiation and the artificial tanning, wear sunscreen, cover your body if you have to remain under the sun for long hours. Know your skin and examine it every month for potential changes. And finally visit your dermatologist for your yearly check-up for a professional diagnosis.