Squamous cell skin cancer is the second most common type of skin cancer and has a higher risk of spreading. AHN is here to help walk you through your diagnosis and treatment plan.
What is squamous cell skin cancer?
Squamous cell skin cancer (SCC) develops in the flat, thin cells that make up the outer layer of your skin. It is the second most common type of skin cancer after basal cell carcinoma but is generally more aggressive.
Squamous cell skin cancer presents differently than other skin cancers. It often appears as a firm, red, scaly bump that might bleed or crust over and might feel sore or tender. It can also appear as an open sore or as a wart-like growth. Melanoma usually appears in multiple colors and has irregular borders. Basal cell carcinoma can be a pearly or waxy flesh-colored bump.
AHN is here to treat your unique case with precision and care.
Skin Cancer Center of Excellence
The AHN Melanoma and Skin Cancer Center of Excellence is unlike any other skin cancer center in the area. Our dedicated team of dermatologists, oncologists, oncodermatologists, and medical professionals are all working in tandem to provide the most comprehensive and compassionate care to our patients.
With a team of expert providers and state-of-the-art technology we’re able to provide comprehensive skin cancer screening, diagnostic services, and specialized care for high-risk patients all in one setting to ensure consistent and thorough care.
Why choose AHN for skin cancer treatment?
At the AHN Cancer Institute, you’re never alone. We see you as not only a patient, but as a person who needs individualized treatment and care. This means you can expect care for your Squamous cell skin cancer treatment that is:
- Personalized: Our skilled team of dermatologists, oncologists, pathologists, and surgeons offer the latest targeted, minimally invasive surgeries or therapies pinpointed to the type of skin cancer you have.
- Patient-centric: Our Navigation Team helps coordinate appointments, answers questions about symptoms and treatment options, and provides support if you need to travel. We help lift the burden of logistics so you can focus on getting better.
- Compassionate: Cancer treatment is a stressful time. Our compassionate team of caregivers is devoted to improving your quality of life, helping you understand treatment options, and keeping you comfortable every step of the way. Our robust, comprehensive support services help you live the best quality of life during treatment.
- Collaborative: Your care team — AHN surgeons, dermatologists, oncologists, and other medical professionals — collaborate on your treatment plan and work to identify what is best for your specific case.
Quick guide to squamous cell skin cancer
Squamous cell skin cancer symptoms
Squamous cell skin cancer screening and diagnosis
Types and stages of squamous cell skin cancer
Squamous cell skin cancer symptoms
Performing regular skin checks for yourself and noticing any changes can help spot early signs of skin cancer. Early detection of Squamous cell skin cancer symptoms can lead to better outcomes and reduce the risk of the cancer spreading.
If you notice any of the following skin changes, contact your doctor as soon as you can.
Squamous cell skin cancer (SCC) may look like or show up on your skin as:
- A firm, red nodule: This is often the first sign of SCC.
- A flat, scaly patch: This may be red, brown, or flesh-colored.
- A sore that doesn't heal: This may be crusty, scabby, or bleed easily.
- A change in the size, shape, or color of a mole: This can be a sign of SCC or another type of skin cancer.
Actinic keratosis
Actinic keratosis (AK) is a common precancerous skin condition caused by prolonged and excessive sun exposure. It is characterized by rough, scaly patches that can appear on sun-exposed areas of the skin, such as the face, ears, neck, scalp, hands, and forearms. Actinic keratosis can develop into squamous cell carcinoma making regular skin screenings important.
Squamous cell skin cancer risk factors
If you have any combination of the following risk factors, you may be at greater risk for developing squamous cell skin cancer (SCC). Although not everyone with these risk factors will develop SCC, it is important to speak with your doctor to determine what skin cancer screening looks like for your needs and risk factors.
- Sun exposure: This is the most significant risk factor. Excessive sun exposure, especially during childhood and adolescence, increases your risk of SCC.
- Tanning beds and sunlamps: These emit UV radiation, which is just as harmful as the sun.
- Fair skin, freckles, and light hair: People with these characteristics are more susceptible to sun damage.
- Family history of skin cancer: Having a close relative with SCC increases your risk.
- Weakened immune system: Conditions like HIV/AIDS or organ transplantation can suppress the immune system, making you more vulnerable to SCC. SCC is the most common skin cancer in solid organ transplant recipient patients.
- Certain skin conditions: People with conditions like xeroderma pigmentosum or albinism are at higher risk.
- Exposure to certain chemicals: Some chemicals, like arsenic and coal tar, can increase the risk of SCC.
- Smoking: Smoking is linked to an increased risk of SCC, particularly on the lips and head.
- Age: The risk of SCC increases with age.
Squamous cell skin cancer screening
Everyone should get regular skin checks, especially those with a higher risk of squamous cell skin cancer. This includes people with fair skin, a family history of skin cancer, and those who have had excessive sun exposure. The frequency of screenings depends on your individual risk factors. Your doctor can advise you on how often you should get screened. We offer monthly cancer screenings across Pennsylvania. Find AHN cancer screening dates, locations, and eligibility near you.
Squamous cell skin cancer diagnosis
During a skin check, your dermatologist will look for suspicious marks that could indicate a squamous cell skin cancer diagnosis. Your AHN dermatologist will use a variety of techniques to determine the diagnosis.
A physical exam
A physician, often a dermatologist, examines your skin to look for suspicious growths. Squamous cell carcinomas tend to appear as a firm bump called a nodule. The nodule can be skin-colored, pink, red, or black — depending on skin color, but there are other signs and symptoms your doctor will look for during the exam.