Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is one of the most common types of skin cancer. While it is often treatable, early diagnosis and the right treatment choices are vital for optimal results. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with SCC, you may feel overwhelmed with options and some worries.
This article will walk you through the factors to consider when choosing the best treatment for squamous cell carcinoma. With the right guidance and expert care, you can feel empowered as you take the next steps toward recovery.
Understanding Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma arises from damage to the squamous cells. These are located in the outermost layer of your skin. These cells are most commonly exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds.
SCC often shows up on parts of the body that receive regular sun exposure, such as the face, hands, arms, and scalp. It can grow slowly. However, ignoring it can allow the cancer to spread deeper into the skin or to other parts of the body.
Symptoms of SCC commonly include:
- A red, scaly patch that may bleed or become crusty
- A firm bump with a rough surface
- A sore that refuses to heal or re-opens after healing
- A wart-like growth that appears suddenly
Seeking treatment promptly is essential. If left untreated, squamous cell carcinoma has the potential to cause significant health problems. It can even become life-threatening.
Choosing the Best Squamous Cell Skin Cancer Treatment
When it comes to treating SCC, the options may feel overwhelming. The best approach depends on the size, location, depth, and aggressiveness of the cancer. Additional factors such as your overall health should also be considered. Below, we outline some of the most common SCC treatment options and when they may be appropriate.
1. Surgical Excision
Surgical excision is often a first-line treatment for squamous cell carcinoma. During this procedure, your dermatologist will surgically remove the cancerous lesion. They will also take a small margin of healthy tissue to ensure complete removal. This method is particularly effective for smaller, easily accessible tumors.
Here are some pros of surgical excision:
- High cure rate for early-stage SCC
- Relatively quick and straightforward procedure
- Can be performed in an outpatient setting
Here are some cons of surgical excision:
- Scarring at the surgical site
- Possible need for additional treatments if margins are not clear
2. Mohs Surgery
Mohs micrographic surgery is considered the gold standard for SCC treatment. This is especially the case for lesions on cosmetically sensitive areas like the face, neck, and hands. It involves removing the cancer layer by layer while examining each layer under a microscope. This advanced technique helps ensure all cancerous cells are eliminated.
Here are the pros of Mohs surgery:
- Best cure rates, especially for aggressive or recurrent SCC cases
- Spares as much healthy tissue as possible, minimizing scarring
- Ideal for cancers in critical, high-function areas
Here are the cons of Mohs surgery:
- May require more time than standard surgical excision due to microscopic examination
- Requires specialized training, so it is essential to choose a board-certified Mohs surgeon
3. Curettage and Electrodesiccation
Curettage and electrodesiccation are often used for small or superficial SCC cases. During this procedure, the surgeon scrapes off the cancerous lesion using a curette. They will then use an electrode to destroy any remaining cancer cells.
Here are the pros of curettage and electrodesiccation:
- Quick and minimally invasive
- Suitable for small, non-aggressive tumors
Here are the cons of curettage and electrodesiccation:
- Less effective for deeper or more aggressive cancers
- Higher risk of recurrence compared to surgical excision or Mohs surgery
4. Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy may be recommended for patients who are not good candidates for surgery. This may be due to advanced age, health problems, or tumor location. It involves using high-energy X-rays to target and destroy cancer cells.
Radiation therapy is non-invasive with no physical recovery period. It is also useful for treating hard-to-access tumors. On the other hand, radiation therapy requires multiple sessions over several weeks. Also, it may cause long-term skin damage, redness, or irritation.
5. Topical Treatments
For early-stage SCC or pre-cancerous lesions like actinic keratoses, topical treatments may be prescribed. This includes 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) or imiquimod. These creams work by stimulating the immune system or directly targeting cancer cells.
Topical treatments are effective for superficial SCC lesions and do not require surgery or downtime. However, they are only suitable for early-stage or superficial cases. They also require strict adherence to the application schedule.
6. Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy freezes cancerous tissues using liquid nitrogen. This treatment is generally reserved for very small or pre-cancerous SCC lesions.
Cryotherapy is quick, minimally invasive, and ideal for patients who cannot undergo surgery. However, the procedure is not appropriate for larger or invasive cancers. You may also need multiple sessions.
The Best Squamous Cell Skin Cancer Treatments in Miami, FL
Choosing the best squamous cell carcinoma treatment involves understanding your options. It is important to weigh the pros and cons and work closely with an expert dermatologist. At the Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center, we specialize in advanced skin cancer treatments. This includes the highly effective Mohs surgery.
Our board-certified Mohs surgeon, Dr. T.J. Giuffrida, brings extensive expertise and precision to every treatment. With a focus on patient care and optimal outcomes, we ensure you feel supported every step of the way. Contact us today at (305) 461-2000 or request a consultation using our appointment request form. Your health and peace of mind matter to us.
We look forward to serving you!
Sources:
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17480-squamous-cell-carcinoma
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/squamous-cell-carcinoma/symptoms-causes/syc-20352480
