Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a type of cancer that's more common than you might think; in fact, it’s the second-most diagnosed skin cancer in the U.S. It can affect not only your skin, but also the mucosal linings in areas like your nose, throat, mouth and even your lungs. While finding out you or a loved one may have squamous cell carcinoma may bring a lot of unknowns and questions, it's important to understand what SCC is and how it can be treated. At the OSUCCC – James, our team of experts wants to provide you with the best information and care in order to treat you.
What is squamous cell carcinoma?
The skin has several layers. The two main layers are the epidermis, which is the outer layer, and the dermis, which is the inner layer. Cancers that begin in squamous cells — the flat cells that form the surface of the skin, eyes and the lining of hollow organs and ducts of some glands — are called squamous cell carcinomas (SCC).
In general, squamous cells perform several important functions. They protect your body from infections and injury, and they also help your body preserve moisture. In squamous cell carcinomas of the skin, cancerous growths occur on the epidermis.
Squamous cell carcinomas of the skin are quite common and usually appear in places that get a lot of sun, such as on your arms, legs or head. SCC may also appear on areas of the skin that have been burned or exposed to chemicals or radiation. Squamous cell carcinoma may be categorized as a type of nonmelanoma skin cancer, like basal cell cancer.
How are squamous cell carcinomas of the skin different than other cancer types?
SCC can also show up in other parts of the body besides the skin. Squamous cell carcinomas of the skin shouldn’t be confused with squamous cell carcinomas in other organs, like those listed below. SCC can sometimes develop due to infections from the human papillomavirus (HPV).
Other areas where squamous cell carcinomas can occur include:
- Anus
- Areas of the head and neck including the lips and mouth
- Bladder
- Cervix
- Esophagus
- Lungs
- Prostate
- Vagina
While different cancers can originate from squamous cells, the treatment approaches and risk factors can vary depending on whether the cancer is located on the skin or within an internal organ. Understanding these differences is important for proper diagnosis and treatment.
What causes squamous cell carcinoma of the skin?
Researchers are still exploring the exact causes of squamous cell carcinoma of the skin.
However, there are certain risk factors that may increase the chances that you could develop the condition.
Our cells are the building blocks of our bodies. Cells contain “instructions” called DNA to help them grow and mature normally. In some people, this DNA can change over time. When this happens, it results in bad instructions and causes cells to grow abnormally into a cancerous tumor (mass) on the skin.
Researchers aren’t exactly sure why this occurs in some people and not others, but it’s thought that exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and some environmental factors play a role. A person can get too much UV radiation from the sun and tanning beds.
Actinic keratosis vs. squamous cell carcinoma of the skin
Actinic keratosis is a skin condition that isn’t cancer but sometimes changes into squamous cell carcinoma. It’s a patch of thick and scaly skin that is usually removed because it can become cancerous. Actinic keratosis occurs due to overexposure to UV radiation. It has similar features to other skin conditions, so it’s important to see a doctor if you are experiencing an unknown skin issue to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
Squamous cell carcinoma symptoms of the skin
Squamous cell carcinoma often appears as a change in the skin. Not all changes in the skin are a sign of either cancer or actinic keratosis. Usually, most cases of squamous cell carcinoma occur in areas that are exposed to the sun, including the face, neck, head or extremities including the arms and legs.
Possible signs of squamous cell carcinoma include the following:
- A concerning bump or sore of any size that doesn’t heal
- Areas of the skin that are raised and red or reddish brown
- Scaly, bleeding or crusty spots on skin
Other conditions may cause the same symptoms as squamous cell carcinoma of the skin. Check with your doctor if you have any of these problems. Early detection is key to ensuring the best treatment outcomes.
Why choose the OSUCCC – James for squamous cell carcinoma treatment?
While squamous cell carcinoma of the skin may be common, treatment should be tailored for your specific needs. Skin cancer experts at the OSUCCC – James are here to help you make informed decisions about your care.
Access to central Ohio’s only dedicated skin cancer center
Our facility is home to The James Skin and Melanoma Center located on our campus in Columbus, Ohio. As the only dedicated skin cancer center in central Ohio, we offer comprehensive cancer care and advanced treatment options tailored to your needs. Our center offers skin cancer care in one convenient setting.
Groundbreaking clinical trials
Some people with skin cancer may be eligible to participate in a clinical trial. The OSUCCC – James has more than 500 open clinical trials at any given time, with some of the world’s latest discoveries available to you right here. In fact, people have access to more cancer clinical trials here than at nearly any other hospital in the region, as well as access to some of the most advanced, personalized treatments and drugs available. If your doctors determine that you’re a candidate for one, they’ll let you know your options.
If you have received a squamous cell carcinoma diagnosis, or if you want a second opinion, we’re here to help you. Call 800-293-5066 or 614-293-5066 to make an appointment.