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Squamous cell skin cancer or squamous cell carcinoma usually develops from prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. If detected and treated early it will rarely cause further complications. Left untreated, it can spread to other parts of the body causing serious complications.

Avoiding prolonged exposure to UV light is the best protection against this and other types of skin cancer. An effective sunscreen can help protect the skin to some extent but is no guarantee for the prevention of this type of cancer.

Treatment for squamous cell skin cancer depends on the size and location of the tumor. Often, all it takes is some minor surgery or the application of some topical medication.

The different types of treatment include:

• Excision of the tumor - The doctor cuts away the cancerous tissue along with some surrounding healthy skin as a margin of safety. It is advisable to consult a doctor skilled in skin reconstruction to avoid scarring in sensitive areas such as your face.
• Mohs surgery - This procedure is used in cases where the affected skin area is larger than ¾ of an inch or are located on the face, the genital area or the mucus membranes. It is considered to be the most effective treatment for squamous cell skin cancer.

The doctor removes one layer of the tumor at a time and examines it under the microscope. The procedure is continued until no more cancer cells can be seen.

• Laser therapy - A laser is used to vaporize the tumor with minimal damage to the surrounding tissue. It is usually used to remove superficial cancers from the lips.
• Freezing - The tumor is frozen using liquid nitrogen and then removed. It is very effective in cases of small squamous cell skin cancers.
• Radiation therapy - This procedure is usually used to treat larger cancers that are difficult to remove surgically.
• Chemotherapy - Superficial cancers can be treated with creams or lotions containing anti-cancer compounds such as 5-fluorouracil. They can be applied directly to the affected areas.

The prognosis for those with squamous cell skin cancer depends on how quickly the cancer is diagnosed. Most of these cancers can be cured when treated early on though some squamous cell skin cancers may return. A late diagnosis runs the risk of complications setting in due to the spread of the cancer. This will affect the prognosis.

Squamous cell skin cancer symptoms include:

• A firm growth or nodule or a flat lesion with a scaly crust on your face, lower lip, neck, ears, hands or arms. Some bleeding may occur.
• A new ulceration or raised area on an old scar or ulcer.
• An ulcer or a white patch inside your mouth.
• A sore or a raised red patch near your anus or genitals.

References

• http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001832/