Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Houston, TX

We think of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) as the intermediate skin cancer, both in terms of how common it is and how aggressive it is to the body. Many squamous cell skin cancers are slow-growing and easily treatable; however, up to 5% can have serious complications, including recurrence after treatment, spread to the lymph nodes or elsewhere in the body, and even death. For this reason, this cancer must be taken very seriously. In general, the less invasive treatments are not as effective as excision or Mohs surgery to remove cancer from the skin. Our practitioners at Advanced Dermatology would like to see your suspicious lesions.

Getting treatment from the start of a lesion that looks or feels different is a smart move because we want to be able to treat your squamous cell carcinoma before it enters into the more dangerous stages of cancer. Book an appointment for a skin analysis or a treatment planning session if you already have a diagnosis. We are accepting new patients in Katy, League City, Pearland, or Sugar Land, TX. Call and schedule today.

Everyone who has skin has a chance of developing skin cancer. However, if you have a light to fair complexion with blue or green eyes — your skin is most at risk for skin cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma is caused by overexposure to the sun, ultraviolet light, some medications, and/or radiation. Using a tanning bed to darken your skin can also cause the development of squamous cell carcinoma. Darker skin can also have skin cancer, unfortunately, most patients do not see how advanced the lesion is until cancer has developed into a later stage. This is why having skin checks, no matter who or what color you are, can save your life.

Squamous cell carcinoma is primarily caused by prolonged exposure to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds. This exposure damages the DNA in skin cells, leading to abnormal growth. Other risk factors include having fair skin, a history of sunburns, a weakened immune system, exposure to chemical carcinogens, and a history of precancerous skin lesions. Chronic skin inflammation or injury can also increase the risk of developing Squamous cell carcinoma. Early detection at Advanced Dermatology and protection against UV exposure are crucial for prevention.

You may not recognize the symptoms of a squamous cell carcinoma; however, you should recognize when a mole or a growth changes on the surface on your skin. This type of skin cancer may look like something normal, like a skin growth or a wart. Just taking the time to do self-skin checks can help you find suspicious skin lesions that evolve on your skin. Once you find a growth that changes its shape, texture, color, size, symmetry, or bleeds — you will know it is time to show your symptoms to a dermatologist.

Squamous cell carcinomas may:

• Bleed at times
• Have a thorny and hard cap
• Feel soft to the touch
• Have a scaly appearance
• Make the skin raised in the area where cancer is present

People who have a skin type that is far more sensitive to ultraviolet (UV) radiation will burn faster and will have a higher risk of skin cancer. All skin types are vulnerable to damage from UV radiation, but those that are extra sensitive will feel and see the consequences more.

Your treatment plan for squamous cell carcinoma can be developed based on what stage the cancer is in when it is detected. In the beginning stages of this cancer, squamous cell carcinomas are smaller than if found after being left untreated for a long time. This type of cancer can spread to areas, like the lymph nodes. The size, location, depth within the skin, and severity of the lesion will be taken into account. A small sampling of the skin (a biopsy) may be collected so that we can study the cells in a laboratory to give you a thorough diagnosis. We offer one treatment or a combination of therapies to remove the unwanted lesion, such as cryotherapy, electrodesiccation and curettage, topical chemotherapeutic medication, and Mohs micrographic surgery. In working with one of our seasoned practitioners, you will have a say in how your treatment strategies will be carried out.

What causes squamous cell carcinoma?

Squamous cell carcinoma is caused by many factors, such as overexposure to the sun, ultraviolet light, some medications, radiation, and/or using a tanning bed. There is also a genetic factor as those with lighter-colored skin are more prone to this form of skin cancer. Patients who think they are at risk should schedule an appointment with a dermatologist to get checked.

Does treatment for squamous cell carcinoma hurt?

The treatment of squamous cell carcinoma is based on the size, location, depth within the skin, and severity of the lesion. Depending on the chosen method of treatment, there may be minimal to no pain involved. Our team members provide a comfortable and safe environment to ensure that the treatment is as painless as possible.

Is squamous cell carcinoma curable?

Yes, with proper diagnosis and treatment, squamous cell carcinoma can be treated successfully. It is important to pay attention to any changes in moles or growths on your skin and seek medical attention as soon as possible if you notice that anything seems "off." Early detection is key to successful recovery.

Make a wise decision to have your skin screened for cancers, like squamous cell carcinoma, at Advanced Dermatology. Our experienced practitioners and medical dermatology teams will give you comprehensive, compassionate care to enable you to have healthy skin throughout your life. Please contact one of our friendly patient care coordinators in Katy, League City, Pearland, or Sugar Land, TX office to schedule your examination as soon as possible.