Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type of skin cancer, accounting for around 20% of all cases. It occurs when cells in the upper layer of the skin, called the epidermis, become cancerous. SCC can develop anywhere on the body, but it is most common on sun-exposed areas, such as the face, neck, arms, and legs.
The main cause of SCC is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Other risk factors include:
SCC can appear as a firm, red, or pink bump on the skin. It may also be scaly, crusty, or bleeding. SCCs can grow slowly or quickly, and they can spread to other parts of the body if not treated.
SCC is typically diagnosed based on a physical examination and a biopsy. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. The best treatment option for you will depend on the size and location of the SCC, as well as your overall health.
The best way to prevent SCC is to protect your skin from UV radiation. This includes:
Risk Factor | Description |
---|---|
Fair skin | People with fair skin are more likely to develop SCC than people with darker skin. |
Light-colored eyes | People with light-colored eyes are more likely to develop SCC than people with dark-colored eyes. |
A history of sunburns | People who have had multiple sunburns are more likely to develop SCC. |
A weakened immune system | People with a weakened immune system are more likely to develop SCC. |
Certain genetic conditions | Certain genetic conditions, such as xeroderma pigmentosum, can increase the risk of developing SCC. |
Exposure to certain chemicals | Exposure to certain chemicals, such as arsenic and tar, can increase the risk of developing SCC. |
Symptom | Description |
---|---|
Firm, red, or pink bump on the skin | The bump may be scaly, crusty, or bleeding. |
Scaling or crusting | The bump may develop a scaly or crusty surface. |
Bleeding | The bump may bleed if it is scratched or bumped. |
Ulceration | The bump may develop an ulcerated surface. |
Pain | The bump may be painful or tender. |
Treatment Option | Description |
---|---|
Surgery | Surgery is the most common treatment for SCC. The goal of surgery is to remove the entire SCC, as well as some of the surrounding healthy tissue. |
Radiation therapy | Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy may be used before or after surgery, or it may be used as the primary treatment for SCC. |
Chemotherapy | Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be used to treat SCC that has spread to other parts of the body. |
Immunotherapy | Immunotherapy uses the body's own immune system to fight cancer. Immunotherapy may be used to treat SCC that has not responded to other treatments. |
Prevention Tip | Description |
---|---|
Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher | Sunscreen helps to protect the skin from UV radiation. |
Reapply sunscreen every two hours | Sunscreen wears off over time, so it is important to reapply it every two hours. |
Seek shade during peak sun hours | The sun's rays are strongest between 10am and 4pm. Avoid spending long periods of time in the sun during these hours. |
Avoid tanning beds | Tanning beds emit UV radiation, which can damage the skin and increase the risk of SCC. |
Wear protective clothing | Protective clothing, such as long sleeves and pants, can help to block UV radiation. |
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