Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is one of the most common forms of non-melanoma skin cancer. And while it is highly treatable when caught early on, it can be more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and may spread to the lymph nodes or internal organs when untreated. Early intervention and expert care are crucial.
Montserrat’s team of specialist surgeons are highly experienced in the detection, surgical removal and post-treatment care of squamous cell carcinoma. We use state-of-the-art techniques in our exceptional facilities to make sure removal is successful while protecting the cosmetic look of your skin, with minimal scarring and patient comfort front-of-mind. We work closely with every patient to create a personalised treatment plan, as well as ongoing support to reduce the risk of recurrence.
If you have noticed a persistent lesion, scaly patch or abnormal growth on your skin, contact the team at Montserrat today to book a consultation.
Squamous cell carcinoma is a common type of skin cancer that arises from squamous cells, which are found in the upper layers of the epidermis. Unlike basal cell carcinoma, which grows slowly and rarely spreads, these cancer cells have a greater potential to invade deeper tissues and spread into other parts of the body, including the lymph nodes and internal organs.
It’s most commonly found on areas of the body that get regular sun exposure, such as around the face, ears, neck, hands and scalp. But it can still develop in areas not exposed to the sun, including the mucous membranes and genitals.
Like BCC and melanoma, squamous cell carcinoma is classified as a keratinocyte cancer, a term now used to describe non-melanoma skin cancers. The main reason people develop squamous cell carcinoma is due to repeated UV exposure, which is preventable with good sun protection and regular skin checks.
Montserrat delivers specialist-led treatment for SCC, from early-stage lesions to more advanced cases requiring complex surgical intervention to treat squamous cell carcinoma.
Unlike some skin conditions that can resolve on their own, squamous cell skin cancer tends to persist, grow and change over time. Some of the more common symptoms include:
Bear in mind that while the biggest risk factor for squamous cell carcinoma is sun exposure, other factors can increase the likelihood of developing squamous cell cancers, including:
The most common type, developing on sun-exposed skin like the face, scalp and hands.
An early form that stays confined to the top layer of the skin.
A more advanced form that can penetrate into deeper layers of skin and spread to nearby tissues.
A rare form that occurs in the mouth, throat or genitals.
Prevalence: Most common type of skin cancer (~70% of cases)
Growth: Slow-growing, rarely spreads
Appearance: Pearly, waxy lump or scar-like lesion
Located: Face, neck, back and ears
Treatment: Surgical excision
Prevalence: Second most common type (~30% of cases)
Growth: Faster-growing, can spread to lymph nodes
Appearance: Scaly, rough patch or wart-like sore
Located: Sun-exposed areas like scalp, lips and hands
Treatment: Needs surgical removal, potentially including radiation therapy
A clinical skin exam is the first step in diagnosing squamous cell carcinoma. If a lesion looks suspicious, a skin biopsy should be carried out, which will involve removing a small portion of the lesion for further analysis under a microscope.
For more advanced cases, imaging tests (CT scans, MRIs or ultrasounds) are used to see if the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes or other organs. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent squamous cell carcinoma and improve patient outcomes.
SCC is usually staged based on the size of the tumour, as well as its depth and potential to spread:
Further treatments beyond the above include radiation therapy (for high-risk or recurrent cases), topical chemotherapy and immunotherapy, which is generally only for advanced cases where surgery isn’t an option.
Preventing squamous cell carcinoma and other skin cancer types should start with a proactive approach to sun safety and your overall skin health. Since squamous cell carcinoma is mostly caused by serious UV radiation exposure, minimising sun damage is one of the easiest ways to lower your risk of developing non-melanoma skin cancers.
Make sure you apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF rating, even on cloudy days, to protect your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Also wear protective clothing (i.e. long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses) for an extra layer of defence against the sun’s rays.
Beyond sun protection, it’s a good idea to do regular self-examinations of your skin to spot abnormal lesions. If you notice persistent sores, rough patches or scaly growths that don’t heal over time, this might mean a type of skin cancer is present. Make sure you also get routine skin checks with a doctor so that any suspicious changes are investigated and treated at an early stage.
For those who have a history of skin cancer, you’ll also want to focus on follow-up care to monitor your skin for new issues. A few lifestyle changes like maintaining a healthy immune system, limiting your exposure to environmental toxins and prioritising your overall skin health will help in protecting against skin cancer recurrence for years to come.
Montserrat’s team of skin cancer specialists are dedicated to providing you with exceptional patient care in the diagnosis, treatment and management of squamous cell carcinoma. With extensive expertise in skin cancer surgery, reconstructive techniques and minimally invasive procedures, our specialists will give you the best treatment while protecting both the functional and cosmetic outcomes of your skin.
General Surgeon | FRACS MBBS
General Surgeon | MBBS MS FRACS
General Surgeon | MBBS, MS, FRACS
Beyond their technical skills, our specialists take a very patient-centric approach to care. They understand that a skin cancer diagnosis can be stressful, which is why they take the time to give you clear explanations and compassionate support throughout every stage of the treatment process.
Concerned about a suspicious lesion? Early detection and treatment is the best way to get a positive outcome. Book an appointment today with Montserrat.
