Summary about Disease
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a type of skin cancer that arises from the squamous cells, which are flat cells that make up the outer layer of the skin (epidermis). It is the second most common form of skin cancer. SCC can also occur in other areas of the body, such as the mouth, throat, lungs, esophagus, and cervix. While often curable when detected early, SCC can be aggressive and spread to other parts of the body (metastasize) if left untreated.
Symptoms
A firm, red nodule
A flat sore with a scaly crust
A new sore or raised area on an old scar or ulcer
A rough, scaly patch on your lip that may evolve into an open sore
A red, raised patch or wart-like sore in the anus or on your genitals These can occur on sun-exposed areas like the scalp, ears, lips, face, neck, and hands.
Causes
The primary cause of SCC is prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Other factors that can increase the risk include:
Previous radiation therapy
Exposure to certain chemicals or pollutants
Chronic inflammation or skin injury
Weakened immune system
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection (especially for SCC in the genital area)
Arsenic exposure
Medicine Used
Treatment options vary based on the size, location, and aggressiveness of the SCC. Common treatments include:
Excisional surgery: Cutting out the cancerous tissue and surrounding margin of healthy skin.
Mohs surgery: A specialized surgery that removes the cancer layer by layer, examining each layer under a microscope until no cancer cells are found.
Curettage and electrodesiccation: Scraping away the cancer cells and then using an electric needle to kill any remaining cells.
Radiation therapy: Using high-energy beams to kill cancer cells.
Topical medications: Creams or lotions containing medications like imiquimod or 5-fluorouracil for superficial SCC.
Photodynamic therapy: Using a photosensitizing drug and light to destroy cancer cells.
Systemic therapy: Chemotherapy or targeted therapy for advanced SCC that has spread.
Immunotherapy: Medications that help your immune system fight the cancer.
Is Communicable
No, squamous cell carcinoma is not a communicable disease. It is not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Limit sun exposure: Avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially during peak hours (10 AM to 4 PM).
Use sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher daily, even on cloudy days. Reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
Wear protective clothing: Cover your skin with long sleeves, pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses when outdoors.
Avoid tanning beds: Tanning beds emit harmful UV radiation that increases your risk of skin cancer.
Regular skin exams: Check your skin regularly for any new or changing moles, spots, or growths. See a dermatologist for professional skin exams, especially if you have a family history of skin cancer or other risk factors.
Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise to boost your immune system.
Avoid Known Carcinogens: Limit exposure to known carcinogens such as arsenic.
How long does an outbreak last?
SCC is not an "outbreak" situation like an infectious disease. It's a progressive cancer. Without treatment, it will continue to grow and potentially spread. The duration of the lesion depends on when it is detected and treated. Early detection and treatment typically lead to better outcomes.
How is it diagnosed?
Skin examination: A dermatologist will visually examine the suspicious area of skin.
Biopsy: A small sample of the skin lesion is removed and examined under a microscope by a pathologist to confirm the diagnosis. The biopsy helps determine the type of skin cancer and its characteristics.
Imaging tests: If there's concern about the cancer spreading (metastasis), imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI scans, or PET scans may be ordered to evaluate the extent of the disease.
Lymph Node Examination: In some cases, a lymph node biopsy may be performed to check for cancer spread to nearby lymph nodes.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of SCC symptoms can vary widely from person to person. It often starts as a small, subtle change on the skin that may be easily overlooked.
Early stages: The lesion may begin as a small, scaly patch or a slightly raised bump. It may be painless and slowly grow over time.
Progression: As the SCC progresses, the lesion may become larger, thicker, and more noticeable. It may develop a crust or bleed easily. Some people may experience itching or tenderness in the affected area.
Advanced stages: If left untreated, SCC can invade deeper tissues and spread to other parts of the body. Symptoms at this stage may include pain, swelling, and enlarged lymph nodes. It's important to note that some SCCs can grow rapidly, while others may develop slowly over months or years. Any new or changing skin lesions should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Important Considerations
Early Detection is Key: The earlier SCC is detected and treated, the higher the chance of a successful outcome.
Follow-up Care: Regular follow-up appointments with a dermatologist are essential after treatment to monitor for recurrence.
Risk Factors: Be aware of your risk factors for SCC, such as sun exposure, fair skin, and a history of skin cancer.
Sun Protection: Practice lifelong sun protection habits to reduce your risk of developing SCC.
Emotional Support: A cancer diagnosis can be emotionally challenging. Seek support from friends, family, or a support group.
Individualized Treatment: Treatment plans should be tailored to the individual patient's needs and the characteristics of their SCC.
Prevention is Possible: SCC is largely preventable by limiting sun exposure and practicing sun-safe behaviors.