Squamous Cell Carcinoma
What is squamous cell carcinoma?
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) develops in the squamous cells of skin and is the second most common type of skin cancer in Australia, accounting for about 15-20% of all skin cancers.
What causes scc?
As with other skin cancers, excessive exposure to the sun is one of the main causes of SCC. Skin type is also a factor though and usually people with fair skin who don’t tan easily are the most at risk.
The most commonly affected areas are the face (particularly the lower lip), ears, neck, forearms, back of the hands and lower legs.
What does scc look like?
SCC’s grow quite quickly, usually over a period of a few months, and may spread to other parts of the body through the lymphatic system or the bloodstream. If this metastasis occurs, further tumours may develop in other bodily organs. These secondary cancers can be very difficult to treat and may be fatal.
A SCC looks like a thick red or fleshy lump with scaly spots. It usually has steady growth and at first, may look like an ulcer or wart. It may also be tender to touch and bleed easily.
Basic characteristics of SCC:
- Thick red, fleshy lump
- Scaly or crusty
- Tender to touch
- Bleeding
- Grows quickly, over few months
- Not usually painful or itchy
Can it be cured?
SCC should be diagnosed and removed as early as possible because of its metastatic ability. Over 99% of people who have a SCC removed are completely cured.
It is advisable that you have regular check ups over the next few years to ensure all cancer cells have been excised
Who’s at risk of developing scc?
Anyone can develop skin cancer, regardless of skin type. Statistics show that one in two Australians will develop some sort of skin cancer.
People most affected with SCC are the elderly, outdoor workers, fair skinned people, anyone who uses solariums and has had excessive UV exposure.
There are several factors that may contribute to an increased risk of developing skin cancer:
- you don’t protect your skin from the sun
- you work outdoors
- you tend to spend a lot of time outside
- you have infrequent but intense sun exposure
- you were born or lived in Australia during your childhood
- you have a fair complexion, blue or green eyes, red or fair hair and you tend to tan poorly or burn easily
- you live close to the equator. For example, the rate of diagnosed skin cancers in Tasmania are much lower than those in Queensland
- you have already had some sort of skin cancer
What can i do?
Take steps to help prevent and reduce the risk of SCC caused by UV radiation.
These should include:
- Stay out of the sun between 11am and 3pm (daylight saving hours) or between 10am and 2pm all other times of the year.
- Stay in the shade. However, be sure to choose your shade carefully as UV can reflect off certain surfaces and you may still burn
- Wear clothing that gives you good protection from the sun
- Wear wide brimmed hats to protect your face, neck and ears
- Use sunscreen. Sunscreen with SPF of at least 15+ with broad spectrum and water resistance should be used regardless of your skin type.
- Protect you lips with either sunscreen or lip balm with SPF.
Check your own skin regularly
It is recommended that you check your own skin every two to three months, along with your yearly skin exam by your doctor. Conducting your own skin exam can be the best way to detecting the early warning signs of cancer.
Get to know your skin, your moles, freckles, blemishes and birthmarks. Be aware of any changes in the size, shape, and colour or number of spots and any sores or blemishes on your skin that don’t heal. These may be the early warning signs of skin cancer.
If you notice anything new or unusual, see your doctor as soon as possible.