Understanding Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Girishma J , Dermatologists

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1. Causes 2. Find a Doctor 3. Diagnosis 4. Treatment 5. FAQs

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) represents a prevalent type of skin cancer, frequently overshadowed by its more infamous counterparts, such as melanoma. However, it is imperative to acknowledge the seriousness of cSCC due to its potential to metastasize and cause significant morbidity.

What is Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma is a malignant neoplasm derived from keratinizing cells of the epidermis. It predominantly affects areas of the skin exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, such as the face, ears, neck, and hands. As a cancer type, cSCC demands attention due to its prevalence and potential severity.

The Significance of Early Diagnosis

Early diagnosis of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma is critical to prevent its progression and potential metastasis. Dermatologists employ a variety of diagnostic techniques, including visual inspection and dermoscopy, to identify suspicious lesions. Biopsy remains the gold standard for confirming cSCC and facilitating early intervention.

What are the Symptoms of Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

Early recognition of cSCC symptoms is crucial for prompt treatment. Symptoms often manifest as persistent, non-healing sores or lesions with a rough, scaly surface. Other signs include:

A firm, red nodule
A flat lesion with a scaly, crusted surface
Wart-like growths
A sore that heals and reopens

These symptoms necessitate a professional evaluation by a dermatologist to rule out malignancy.

What are the Causes and Risk Factors of Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

Understanding the causes of cSCC is vital for effective prevention and management. While UV radiation is the primary risk factor, other elements contribute to its development.

Ultraviolet Radiation

Chronic exposure to UV radiation from the sun or artificial sources, such as tanning beds, significantly increases the risk of SCC. UV radiation causes DNA damage in skin cells, which can lead to carcinogenesis over time.

Genetic Predispositions

Individuals with fair skin, light hair, and light-coloured eyes possess a higher susceptibility to cSCC due to reduced melanin, which offers protection against UV radiation. Additionally, people with a family history of skin cancer are at an elevated risk.

Immunosuppression

Immunocompromised individuals, such as organ transplant recipients, are at a heightened risk of developing SCC. Immunosuppressive medications reduce the body's ability to repair UV-induced DNA damage, facilitating cancer development.

Other Contributing Factors

Other risk factors include exposure to chemical carcinogens, chronic skin inflammation, and certain genetic disorders like xeroderma pigmentosum, which impair DNA repair mechanisms.

When Should You See a Doctor for Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

Consulting a dermatologist or oncologist is important for early diagnosis and effective treatment.

A sore or lesion that does not heal within a few weeks
Changes in the size, shape, or color of a skin growth
Recurring lesions or wounds that bleed easily
Painful or rapidly growing skin nodules

No doctors found for Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma in any location.

How is Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma Diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves clinical examination and confirmatory tests to identify and stage the cancer.

Physical examination of suspicious skin lesions by a specialist
Dermoscopy for closer evaluation of skin abnormalities
Skin biopsy to confirm the presence of cancer cells
Imaging tests if there is suspicion of spread to deeper tissues or lymph nodes
Histopathological examination to determine tumor type and grade
Sentinel lymph node biopsy in high-risk cases
CT scan or MRI for detailed assessment of tumor spread
PET scan in advanced cases to detect metastasis
Assessment of lesion size, depth, and location (staging)
Evaluation of patient history including sun exposure and prior skin cancers
Differential diagnosis to rule out other skin conditions

What is the Treatment of Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

Treatment for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma varies depending on the tumor's size, location, and stage. The primary objectives are complete removal and prevention of recurrence.

Surgical Interventions

Surgical excision remains the cornerstone of cSCC treatment. Mohs micrographic surgery is particularly effective for tumours located in cosmetically sensitive areas, ensuring complete tumour removal with minimal impact on healthy tissue.

Non-Surgical Treatments

Alternative treatments are available for superficial or inoperable tumors. These include:

Cryotherapy: Utilizes extreme cold to destroy abnormal cells.
Topical Chemotherapy: Involves the application of chemotherapeutic agents directly to the skin.
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): Combines a photosensitizing agent with light exposure to target cancer cells.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy serves as an adjunct or alternative to surgery, particularly for patients unable to undergo surgical procedures. It is also effective in treating deeper or more invasive tumours.

Systemic Treatments

In advanced cases where cSCC has metastasized, systemic treatments such as targeted therapy and immunotherapy are considered. These therapies aim to inhibit cancer growth and enhance the immune system's ability to fight cancer cells.

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