A diagnosis of squamous cell skin cancer can feel daunting. You might be overwhelmed by questions, concerns, and uncertainty about what comes next. How advanced is it? Will treatment be painful? What will recovery look like? These are understandable worries, and knowing what to expect can make all the difference.
Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer. It often develops in areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, neck, and hands. It can be serious if left untreated, but it is also manageable when addressed early by a skilled doctor. This article will walk you through squamous cell skin cancer treatment, helping you understand how to prepare.
1. Diagnosis and Staging
Navigating squamous cell skin cancer treatment involves different stages. Each one is designed to address the cancer effectively while prioritizing your well-being.
The first step in your treatment is an accurate diagnosis. If you notice a persistent lesion, sore, or scaly patch on your skin, consult a dermatologist. Early-stage squamous cell carcinoma often looks like rough, red patches or raised growths with a crusty surface.
Your doctor may perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. During this procedure, a small sample of the affected tissue is taken and analyzed under a microscope. Once squamous cell carcinoma is confirmed, further tests may be conducted. They can help determine its stage, identifying whether the cancer has spread beyond the skin.
2. Preparation for Treatment
Your physician will discuss your treatment options based on the size, location, and stage of your cancer. This is also the time to ask questions about the procedure, recovery timeline, and expected outcomes. To prepare, your doctor may recommend avoiding certain over-the-counter medications that could thin your blood. If you have other health conditions or are taking prescription medications, share these details.
3. Treatment Methods
Many squamous cell skin cancer treatments are available, each tailored to the specifics of your case. Some of the most common methods a dermatologist might use are:
Surgical Removal
Surgical procedure to remove skin cancer is one of the most effective treatments for squamous cell carcinoma. The most common surgical technique is Mohs surgery.
Mohs surgery for squamous cell carcinoma involves removing thin layers of cancerous tissue. Meanwhile, it preserves as much healthy tissue as possible. It is performed by a specialized surgeon, such as Dr. T.J. Giuffrida at Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center.
The process is meticulous and precise. Your surgeon will remove the visible portion of the cancer. Then, they will examine each layer of tissue under a microscope. This continues until no cancer cells are detected, minimizing scarring and ensuring precise removal.
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy is often used for early-stage cancers. It involves freezing the cancerous cells with liquid nitrogen, causing them to die and eventually fall off. This is typically a quick, in-office procedure with minimal downtime.
Topical Medications
For superficial squamous cell carcinoma, your doctor may prescribe topical medications. This includes creams or gels that contain cancer-fighting agents. These treatments are applied directly to the affected area over several weeks.
Radiation Therapy
If surgery is not a viable option or if the cancer has spread deeper, radiation therapy may help. This treatment uses specific frequencies of radiation to directly destroy cancer cells. Destroying these cells can shrink tumors and may eventually remove the cancer cells completely.
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
PDT involves applying a photosensitizing agent to the skin. Then, the skin is exposed to a specific type of light. This activates the agent, targeting and destroying cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue.
4. Recovery Period
The recovery process will depend on the treatment you receive. After Mohs surgery or other surgeries, you may experience mild swelling, redness, and tenderness around the area. Other treatments may have other side effects.
Your physician will provide detailed aftercare instructions. This includes how to clean the wound and when to remove bandages or stitches. For topical treatments or cryotherapy, recovery may involve some peeling or redness as the skin heals.
Radiation or PDT may result in temporary sensitivity or skin irritation. However, these effects typically subside over time.
5. Follow-Up Appointments
Regular follow-up appointments with your dermatologist are essential. Squamous cell skin cancer can recur, so ongoing monitoring ensures any new developments are caught early. During these check-ups, your doctor will examine the treated areas. They will also assess your overall skin health and address any concerns you might have.
6. Lifestyle Adjustments and Prevention
Skin cancer treatment is an opportunity to adopt healthier habits and protect your skin going forward.
These adjustments might include the following steps:
- Daily Use of Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day.
- Sun-Protection Gear: Wear wide-brimmed hats, UV-blocking sunglasses, and protective clothing outdoors.
- Self-Exams: Regularly check your skin for any new or unusual growths. Seek medical attention if anything changes.
- Avoid Tanning Beds: Artificial UV exposure is a major risk factor for skin cancer.
Squamous Cell Skin Cancer Treatment in Coral Gables, FL
Facing squamous cell skin cancer can feel overwhelming, but with the right care and guidance, it is highly treatable. Early intervention is key, and we are here to support you every step of the way.
At Dermatology and Skin Cancer Center, our board-certified Mohs surgeon, Dr. T.J. Giuffrida, combines expertise with compassionate care tailored to your needs. Call us today at (305) 461-2000 or use our online appointment request form to schedule your consultation. You are not alone in this. We are here to help you with squamous cell skin cancer treatment, one step at a time.
We look forward to serving you!
