Squamous cancer

SQUAMOUS CANCER (SCC)

What is squamous cancer / cell carcinoma (SCC)?

Squamous cancer forms from epidermal squamous cells that resemble fish scales when looked at through the microscope. The tumor is dangerous because it metastases.
SCC is the second largest disease of all skin tumors. Men suffer more often. Risk factors – light skin (I and II skin types) and sun exposure.

What are the risk factors for SCC?

The main risk factor is – sun exposure. The tumor may appear from non-hazardous pre-cancer skin formations – actinic (solar) keratosis. They are usually formed in sun sensitive areas: facial skin (forehead, cheeks), hand dorsum. Squamous cancer formation may be affected by:
intense heat, X-rays hydrated carbohydrates, arsenic.
Sometimes the SCC may form from scar tissue.
Squamous carcinoma is provoked by Infections, worn-out immune system, some systemic drugs.

Can the SCC metastase?

Yes. Unlike basal cell carcinoma, squamous carcinoma, metastases to other organs.
SCC, formed from actinic keratosis is more susceptible to treatment  (as compared with SCC, formed from scar tissue).

How is squamous carcinoma diagnosed in GK Clinic?

The GK Clinic specialists perform skin biopsy and further cytomorphological (cell) or histomorphological researches.

How is SCC cured?

• Cryosurgical treatment: the tumor is removed with the aid of liquid nitrogen, which causes cold.
• Laser surgery: SCC laser destruction is carried out
• Surgical excision: the tumor is operated, the wound is sewn. If the process extends, surrounding lymph nodes and metastases removal.
• Mohs’ micrographic surgery: Named after the explorer Dr. The Frederick Mohs. Otherwise known as “microscopically controlled excision. ” The surgeon removes part of the tumor during surgery and a makes a histological study. This is an operation, during which, the tumor is extremely accurately removed with minimal damage  to the healthy tissue with permanent morphology testing of parts of the tumor.
• Radiation therapy: 25 to 40 treatment procedures, using shortfocused gamma rays, are carried out, until the complete disappearance of the tumor.
• Chemotherapy: the tumor is treated with anticancer medication.

How to protect yourself against SCC?

GK Clinic specialists recommend: the best and most effective way is to avoid direct sun’s rays and check regularly with a doctor (especially when you or someone from your family has been diagnosed with skin cancer).

We recommend:

• Stay under the sun for only a short period of time.
• Avoid the sun between 10 to 14 hours (most active period of solar radiation).
• Wear appropriate clothing, hats.
• Use sunscreen with SPF> 30 (Sun Protection Factor): creams, lotions. Do not forget to regularly apply them on your skin.
• Periodically check with your doctor (dermatologist, oncologist, other specialty professional).

If you have any questions, please contact our GK Clinic by phone at (+370) 5 255 33 53 and arrange a private consultation.