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Squamous Cell Cancer Treatments

Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer. According to the Mayo Clinic, squamous cell cancer is the second leading form of non-melanoma cancer of the skin. If squamous cell cancer is caught early, complications from the disease can be prevented. However, if the carcinoma continues to grow and spread, tumors can form. Squamous cell carcinoma is caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet radiation, either through sunlight or tanning beds. Treatment will vary depending on the size of the carcinoma or if a tumor has developed.

  1. Cryosurgery

    • Cryosurgery is a type of procedure that involves freezing cancer cells. Usually liquid nitrogen is used in the removal of the cancer cells. Cryosurgery is more effective for small carcinomas. If the carcinomas are large--especially if the carcinomas are located on the nose, ears or eyelids--cryosurgery may not be effective.

    Excision

    • Excision is done to remove larger carcinomas. According to the Mayo Clinic, a doctor will not only remove the cancerous tissue, but will also remove some of the healthy surrounding tissue. In some instances, larger amounts of healthy skin around a tumor may be removed if it is thought that the carcinoma can spread. If tissue is removed from the face, plastic reconstruction may be needed to reduce the appearance of scarring.

    Mohs Surgery

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, Mohs surgery is "the most effective form of treatment," when it comes to squamous cell carcinoma. Layers of a tumor are removed. Each layer is examined under a microscope; this is done until there are no remaining abnormal cells. The tumor can be removed in its entirety without the removal of any surrounding healthy skin. Mohs surgery is most effective on tumors that are larger than 2 cm, in tumors that have recurred, or on areas of the mucous membranes.

    Types of Therapies

    • There are various types of therapies that can be used in the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma. One such treatment is laser therapy. Laser therapy uses a high intensity beam of light to vaporize carcinomas. Another form of treatment is radiation therapy. Radiation therapy can kill any rapidly growing cancer cells. According to the Mayo Clinic, there are also creams and lotions (such as Imiquimod cream), that can help your immune system fight the skin cancer.

    Prevention/Solution

    • In order to prevent skin cancer, it is important to use sunscreen. According to the Mayo Clinic, you should use a sunscreen with an SPF of at the least 15. Apply the lotion 20 to 30 minutes prior to sun exposure. Try to avoid the sun's strongest sunlight. A common misconception about cloud coverage is that the clouds filter out UV radiation. This isn't true, and you should still use sunscreen when it's cloudy outside. The Mayo Clinic recommends a sunscreen known as Anthelios SX; it's thought to be more protective in preventing skin cancer. Tanning beds are also known to emit UVA rays, which can penetrate your skin deeper, leading to cancerous lesions. If you feel the need to have that tan, use self-tanning lotions or sprays.

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