SCC Skin Cancer
Understanding Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma or SCC is the second most common type of skin cancer. It often appears on skin that has been damaged by the sun, chemicals or radiation. SCC usually forms red bumps on the skin that feel scaly to the touch. While cancer can spread to nearby lymph nodes, there is a chance for treatment and cures before the spread happens. If you think squamous cell carcinoma may be affecting you, then please book a consultation with BHSkin Dermatology.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment Options
SCC can appear in several different ways. The most common locations are where skin has been damaged in the past, like the scalp, hands, ears or lips. However, SCC can appear anywhere, including inside the mouth, soles of the feet and the genital area. Some symptoms of SCC include:
- Firm, red nodules
- Flat sores with a scaly crust
- New sores or raised areas on old scars or ulcers
- A rough, scaly patch of skin on the lips that may become an open sore
- Red sore or rough patch inside of the mouth
- Red, raised patch or wart-like sore on or inside of the anus or on genitals
Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment Options
Mohs Surgery
Mohs surgery is considered the most effective method for treating SCC. During Mohs surgery, your BHSkin Dermatologist will remove the cancer cells from each skin layer, examining them closely until no cancer cells remain. This ensures your dermatologist has removed the entire growth without taking more healthy skin than is necessary.
Curettage and Electrodesiccation
Curettage and electrodesiccation, often referred to as C&E, is a good option for SCC skin cancer that is less likely to come back. This treatment option is two-fold. The Curettage involves using a scraping tool to remove the surface of the cancer. Electrodesiccation comes in afterward to sear the base of the cancer with an electric needle.
Laser Therapy
Using equipment that produces an intense beam of light, your dermatologist can literally vaporize cancerous growths. This treatment option often leads to very little damage to the healthy tissue surrounding the affected area. It also helps to prevent swelling, scarring or bleeding. If SCC is still in the very minor stages or appears as very superficial skin lesions, laser treatment may be the best option.
Other Treatment Options
Other SCC skin cancer treatment options include:
- Radiation therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Chemotherapy
- Cryosurgery (freezing cancer cells in liquid nitrogen)
- Photodynamic therapy
- Targeted drug therapy
- Simple excision
What to Expect Before and After SCC Treatment in LA
Before SCC Treatment
Before treatment, several tests and office visits may be expected. We’ll want to run several tests to make sure the diagnosis and stage of the cancer are correct. However, what to expect during treatment can vary depending on the kind of treatment you receive.
After SCC Treatment
The condition and situation after the treatment also depend a lot on what kind of treatment you’ll be undergoing. All of the treatments will entail follow-up appointments and recovery time.
You should take extra care to protect your skin from the elements at this time. Soft clothing, broad-spectrum sunscreen used daily, and materials that protect skin from the sun are the most important factors. Also, avoid any situation where skin could be harmed, including tanning beds and spending a long amount of time outside even on cloudy days.
Locations
1505 Wilson Terrace
Suite 240
Glendale, CA 91206
Don Mehrabi MD in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Encino Tarzana, and Glendale. Same/Next Day / Saturday appt.
16030 Ventura Blvd.
Suite 140
Encino, CA 91436
Don Mehrabi MD in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Encino Tarzana, and Glendale. Same/Next Day / Saturday appt.
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