Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
Squamous cells are one of three primary cell types present in the top layer of the skin. These cells are flat and located near the skin surface. They shed when they get old, and new cells are formed as a replacement.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common skin cancer and is characterized as an accelerated and abnormal squamous cell growth. If they get diagnosed early can become treatable. Another related form of SCC is known as cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCCs). “Cutaneous” identify cancer like skin cancer and Is different from squamous cell cancer that can occur in places like the throat, mouth, and lungs.
SCC can occur as a result of damage from exposure to ultraviolet radiation and other damaging triggers that cause abnormal changes in squamous cells. SCC appears as open sores, red patches with rough and thickened growths. At times SCC crusts over, itches, and bleed. The lesions are formed and arise in sun-exposed areas of the body. SCC occurs in different areas of the body, including genetics, and looks different from person to person.
Their appearance can be different depending upon the location of the skin and its type. They can be persistent, a scaly red patch with irregular borders that crust or bleed. Open sores can also be formed that bleeds and remains persistent for weeks.
The majority of SCC can be treated easily if caught early, but these lesions can become dangerous, deadly, and disfiguring if allowed to grow. The untreated SCC can become invasive and grow into deeper layers of skin, and spread to other parts of the body. SCC is less common than basal cell carcinoma (BCC)