Skin cancer is common across many groups. Squamous cell carcinoma makes up a large part of these cases; it starts in the squamous cells found in the middle and outer skin layers. It often appears where skin sees a lot of sunlight; early discovery leads to effective care, but untreated cases may spread. Sun exposure is a major factor; knowing this link helps people spot warning signs.
Identifying Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Ultraviolet radiation is the main reason squamous cell carcinoma develops. Sunlight contains this radiation, and tanning beds and sunlamps also emit UV rays. These rays damage skin cell DNA, and DNA changes make cells grow out of control, but small mistakes often get fixed. Over time, these changes may lead to cancer. Long-term sun exposure increases your risk, and severe sunburns, especially in the past, raise the odds. DNA damage leads to uncontrolled cell growth and tumors.
Sun exposure is not the only cause. Fair skin, light hair, and blue eyes mean less melanin is present; melanin helps block some UV rays. A weak immune system raises risk too; people taking immunosuppressants after an organ transplant may face more risk, but chronic irritation, burns, and scars can also be sources.
Recognizing the Common Symptoms
Look for changes that stand out from the rest of your skin. Squamous cell carcinoma shows up most often in sun-exposed places; it can be found on the face, ears, neck, lips, and the back of the hands. It also appears on other parts, and a red, firm bump may arise, but flat sores that have a scaly crust may come and stay open. Growths do not all look the same; some show as new sores or raised spots on old scars.
Skin changes signal when to see a provider. A rough, patchy spot may bleed or get crusty, and you could see a sore in the mouth or a patch on other body areas. These signs need medical review; a biopsy checks if cells are cancerous, but a spot that bleeds, itches, or grows needs a check by a health provider.
Exploring the Treatment Options
Doctors select treatment based on several factors. Tumor size and location matter, and aggressive tumors need more care. Small, surface skin cancers may be removed easily, and larger tumors might need more complex steps, but removing the tumor and a margin of healthy tissue is a typical method. Stitches close the wound. Mohs surgery is another option, and the doctor takes away thin layers, checking each for cancer under a microscope, until only healthy tissue remains.
Other options help when surgery is unsuitable. Radiation aims high-energy beams to kill cancer, and this works for tough-to-remove tumors. Cryosurgery uses liquid nitrogen to freeze and destroy surface lesions, and topical creams treat some mild cancers, but the medication is applied for several weeks. If cancer spreads, systemic treatments might be necessary.
Talk to a Specialist
Squamous cell carcinoma mostly comes from long-term UV exposure. You lower your risk by limiting sun exposure and skipping tanning beds. Check your skin often for changes. Finding cancer early means more effective treatment. Available therapies differ by case, but early action often helps outcomes. Knowing causes and spot symptoms helps people get timely medical opinions and care. This awareness can reduce your chances of harm from this skin cancer. Talk to a specialist to get checked.
