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Squamous Cell Carcinoma

What is squamous cell carcinoma?

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) or cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) ranks as the second most prevalent type of skin cancer following basal cell carcinoma. It originates from squamous cells within the outermost layer of the skin, the epidermis. Typically, squamous cell carcinomas develop on parts of the body that are exposed to the sun the most, such as the head, arms, and legs. Additionally, cancer can also occur in regions of the body that have mucous membranes, which are the inner linings of your organs and body spaces like the mouth, lungs, and anus.

What are the types of squamous cell carcinoma?

There are different types of squamous cell carcinoma based on where and how much cancer is in your body:

  • Cutaneous: Cancer that only affects the top layer of your skin (in situ) or cancer that’s spread beyond the top layer of your skin.
  • Metastatic: Cancer that’s spread to other parts of your body beyond your skin.

Who does squamous cell carcinoma affect?

Squamous cell carcinoma can affect anyone.

You’re most at risk if you:

  • Have long-term sun exposure or sun damage to your skin at a young age.
  • Have a pale complexion, blue or green eyes, blonde or red hair.
  • Are 65 years of age or older.
  • Have a weak immune system or received an organ transplant.
  • Had chemical exposure (cigarettes, arsenic).

Individuals identified as having been assigned male at birth (AMAB) have a risk that is approximately twice as high for developing squamous cell carcinoma. Those aged 50 and above are most at risk for SCCs, yet there has been an increase in the occurrence of these cancers among individuals younger than 50.

FACIAL SKIN CONDITIONS

What are the symptoms of squamous cell carcinoma?

Symptoms of squamous cell carcinoma include skin changes like:

  • A rough-feeling, bump or growth, which might crust over like a scab and bleed.
  • A growth that’s higher than the skin around it but sinks down (depression) in the middle.
  • A wound or sore that won’t heal, or a sore that heals and then comes back.
  • An area of skin that’s flat, scaly and red that’s larger, about 2.5 centimetres.

What are the signs of squamous cell carcinoma?

Malignant growths, spots, or sores that develop on your skin may indicate squamous cell carcinoma, such as:

  • A bump or lump that can feel dry, itchy, scaly or have a different colour from the skin around it (actinic keratosis).
  • A lesion on your lower lip where the tissue becomes pale, dry and cracked (cheilitis). This may have a burning sensation when you’re exposed to the sun.
  • White or pale spots in your mouth, on your tongue, gums or cheeks (leukoplakia).

Where on my body can I get squamous cell carcinoma?

You can have squamous cell carcinoma on any part of your body, but it’s most common on your:

  • Skin
  • Mouth, tongue and throat (oral carcinoma). Face, lips, nose, ears, eyelids and scalp.
  • Stomach (esophageal or epidermoid carcinoma).
  • Hands, arms and legs.
  • Anal cavity.

What causes squamous cell carcinoma?

A change in the p53 gene leads to the development of squamous cell carcinoma. The primary method of mutation in the p53 gene is through exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or from the use of tanning beds indoors.

The p53 gene directs your cells to divide and reproduce to replace old or damaged cells. It acts as a guardian against cancer by regulating the rate and frequency of cell division. An excess of cell division can lead to the formation of tumours, some of which may be malignant.

A mutation in the p53 gene results in the absence of necessary instructions for your cells to function properly. Consequently, your squamous cells divide and replicate excessively, leading to the growth of tumours (such as bumps, lumps, or lesions) throughout your body.

Does squamous cell carcinoma spread?

Squamous cell skin cancer seldom moves to other areas of your body (metastasize). However, if it does, the spread is gradual and can become fatal if not addressed. Should you observe any alterations in your skin, seek medical attention right away.

FACIAL SKIN CONDITIONS

Usually forms on areas of the skin that receive the most direct sunlight

Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer

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