Ask About Our Skin Cancer Center at Dermatology Associates of Atlanta
Squamous cell carcinoma is one of the three common types of skin cancer, along with basal cell carcinoma and melanoma. This form of cancer starts within the squamous cells that make up the middle and outer layers of the skin. Although squamous cell carcinoma of the skin is typically very treatable and not life-threatening, it can grow and spread to other parts of the body if not dealt with in a timely fashion. Squamous cell carcinoma of sun-exposed skin can (but rarely) spread to lymph nodes and other parts of the body. Squamous cell carcinoma of mucous skin like lip oral mucosa spread more commonly.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma Causes:
Squamous cell carcinoma occurs as a result of changes to the DNA of the squamous cells found within the skin. The changes instruct the squamous cells to multiply more rapidly than they normally would, leading to an excess of squamous cells. This is very similar to the process that causes basal cell carcinomas. These excess cells can then invade and destroy healthy body tissue. In most cases, this initial cellular mutation results from overexposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation over time. Certain immune-suppressing health conditions can also increase the risk of developing a squamous cell carcinoma.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma Diagnosis:
We have multiple ways of diagnosing squamous cell carcinoma. The first is a physical exam of the skin, where one of our board-certified dermatologists or physician assistants will examine the skin for specific signs of squamous cell carcinoma of the skin. If something irregular or alarming is detected, A biopsy will then be performed to determine if it is cancerous.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatments:
In many cases, treating squamous cell carcinomas can be done with minor, minimally invasive treatments. Some patients may only require topical medications to treat very small and minor cases. Smaller squamous cell carcinomas can be treated with cryosurgery, photodynamic therapy (PDT), or laser therapies. Larger squamous cell carcinomas may require Mohs surgery, simple excision surgery, or even radiation therapy.
For more information on squamous cell carcinoma and our available treatment options, please contact Dermatology Associates of Atlanta today.
