Squamous Cell Carcinoma - Skin Cancer

What is cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma?

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer. The incidence of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma has been rising steadily in recent decades. One of the three main types of cells in the top layer of the skin (called the epidermis), cutaneous squamous cells are flat and located near the surface of the skin. Cancer occurs when these cells begin to grow abnormally. Cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas tend to grow slowly and rarely spread (metastasize)to other parts of the body. However, they should be treated as soon as possible once detected. if left untreated, cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma in advanced stages can spread to lymph nodes and other organs.
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What are the signs and symptoms of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma?

Cutaneous squamous cell skin cancer develops most often on areas of the skin that are exposed to sun or other sources of ultraviolet rays, including the face, scalp, lips, ears, neck, hands or arms, but can occur in other areas of the body. Signs of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma can vary from person to person, but can appear as open sores, scaly red patches or raised bumps on the skin that are thick or wart-like. These areas may feel rough and have a depression in the center. Although generally painless, these areas may itch or bleed after shaving or exposed to other friction. These symptoms can also indicate conditions other than cancer. See your medical doctor if any of these symptoms persist beyond a few weeks.
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How is cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma diagnosed?

Diagnosing cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma begins with a physical examination so that your doctor can evaluate the symptoms you are experiencing. The doctor may perform a skin biopsy to remove all or part of the affected area(s) for examination under a microscope. Sometimes a biopsy will remove the entire tumor without the need for any further treatment. Additional information to confirm a diagnosis can include blood tests and/or imaging tests.
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What causes cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma?

The most common cause of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma is repeated and unprotected skin exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. UV rays occur naturally in sunlight, as well as from man-made sources such as tanning beds. Without adequate protection, UV rays can damage the DNA inside skin cells and cause changes in how these cells function.
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Is cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma genetic?

Multiple genetic factors and pathways may contribute to an increase in the risk of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. It is best to talk with your doctor regarding any genetic predisposition to these cancers.
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Is cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma curable?

Most cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas are curable when found and treated in early stages. However, cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma can recur (come back) even after successful treatment. It can recur in the same place or in other areas of the body. Anyone diagnosed with any type of skin cancer is at higher risk of developing skin cancers in the future, so it is important to continue watching for warning signs.
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How is cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma treated at FCS?

Each patient and each cancer is unique. At FCS, physicians develop a personalized treatment plan in partnership with patients. Treatment options depend on a number of factors, including the specific type and stage of cancer, possible side effects, and the patient’s overall health and personal preference. Surgery to remove the cancerous cells and healthy tissues surrounding them is the most common treatment for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. Treatment for more advanced stages can include chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
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What are common risk factors for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma?

Prolonged exposure to UV rays, either from the sun or from artificial sources, greatly increases the risk of skin cancer. Daily use of sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30+ applied to all exposed areas of the body can greatly reduce risk. Use of tanning beds should also be avoided. Other risk factors include:
 

• Having fair or pale skin
• History or family history of skin cancer
• Chronic skin infections or inflammation
• Weakened immune system
• History of human papilloma virus (HPV)
  The majority of cutaneous squamous cell skin cancers are diagnosed in adults over age 50 and it occurs four times more frequently in men than in women.

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Are there screening tests for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma?

Because most cutaneous squamous cell skin cancers we can see and feel most cutaneous squamous cell skin cancers, monthly self-exams and annual skin checks by a dermatologist are vital to early detection. Spots, blemishes, freckles and moles are signs of sun-damaged skin. They are usually harmless, but if you notice them changing or if something doesn’t look or feel right, it is important to reach out to your medical doctor or dermatologist.
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How long can you wait to treat cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma?

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas, similar to all forms of cancer, should be treated as soon as possible once detected to achieve the best outcomes.
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How fast does cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma spread?

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas tend to grow slowly and rarely spread (metastasize)to other parts of the body. However, they should be treated as soon as possible once detected. if left untreated, cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma in advanced stages can spread to lymph nodes and other organs.
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Is cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma deadly?

Cutaneous squamous cell skin cancer is usually not life-threatening. However, if detected in later stages or left untreated, cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma can grow and spread to other parts of the body and cause serious complications that make successful treatment more difficult.
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