Signs of Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Why It’s Important to Pay Attention to Them

3 minute read

By Ryan Pratt

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common skin cancer that can develop due to prolonged sun exposure or other risk factors. Knowing the signs can help you spot it early. When detected in time, SCC is usually treatable. Now let’s cover the main signs of squamous cell carcinoma and discuss why being aware of these signs can make a difference to your health.

What is Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that begins in the squamous cells. These cells are flat and found in the skin’s outer layer.

SCC often develops in areas of the skin that receive a lot of sun exposure, like the face, neck, arms, and hands. While it typically grows slowly, it can spread to other areas if left untreated. Catching SCC early makes treatment easier and helps prevent it from becoming serious.

Recognizing Key Signs of SCC

Identifying squamous cell carcinoma early involves paying close attention to changes in your skin. Here are the main signs to look out for:

Why Early Detection is Crucial

Squamous cell carcinoma can generally be treated if caught early. Treatment options range from minor procedures (like removing the affected skin), to more involved treatments if it has spread (such as surgical removal, cryotherapy, or radiation). For more advanced cases, targeted therapies and immunotherapy may be considered to help prevent further spread.

When left untreated, SCC can grow deeper into the skin and reach other parts of the body, which makes it harder to manage. Early detection helps you avoid more aggressive treatments and improves the chance of a full recovery.

How to Protect Yourself

Being proactive about skin health can help you prevent squamous cell carcinoma. Here are some tips:

When to See a Doctor

If you notice any unusual skin changes that don’t go away after a few weeks, it’s wise to see a doctor. While not every skin change is cancerous, early diagnosis and treatment are key for squamous cell carcinoma.

A dermatologist can examine your skin and, if needed, perform a biopsy to confirm if it’s SCC. Regular skin checks with a dermatologist are also beneficial, especially if you have risk factors.

Learn More About Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Understanding the signs of squamous cell carcinoma and acting quickly when you spot them can make a difference to your health. Early detection allows for easier treatment and reduces the chance of cancer spreading.

Protecting your skin, performing self-checks, and seeing a dermatologist when necessary are essential steps to lower your risk. Stay aware, protect your skin, and take action if you notice any unusual changes.

Ryan Pratt

Contributor