Manifestations of Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Generally related to chronic sun exposure, however, one might see this cancer after burns, radiation damage, damage to the immune system and long standing ulcers or sores.
This is skin cancer is less common than Basal Cell Carcinoma. Generally, the cancer is confined to the outer skin layer (epidermis), but can penetrate deeper and get out of control.
Most SCC are seen in the sun exposed parts of the body and take a long time to develop. Mucous membranes can be affected and a common area is the lower lip.
There are lesions found on the skin that can be precursors to the eventually formation of this skin cancer, such as:
Actinic Keratosis - rough, scaly reddish patches on the skin from sun exposure.
Actinic Cheilitis - white to pale scaly patches and dry, cracked looking lips from sun exposure.
Bowen's Disease - a scaly, brown to red patch the growing along the surface of the skin.
Erythroplakia - slightly raised reddish areas inside the mouth that bleed easily.
Leukoplakia - white patches inside the mouth which a less worrisome than Erythroplakia.
Treatment
Surgical removal of this tumor is the most important aspect of controlling this type of skin cancer.
Radiation therapy can be used to help maintain local spread of the disease.
Cryotherapy (freezing)
Topical Creams for early Basal Cell Carcinoma
5 - Fluorouracil ( trade names Efudex and Carac )
Imiquimod (trade name Aldara)
Basal Cell Carcinoma - Squamous Cell Carcinoma - Melanoma
CALL
Reconstructive Plastic Surgeon Dr Costanzo, Thousand Oaks
805 / 373-9919 or 818 / 706-2070
Skin Cancer Removal and Reconstruction by Dr. Costanzo of Thousand Oaks, a Cosmetic and Plastic Reconstructive Surgeon, serving men and women in California, Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, Encino, Sherman Oaks, Chatsworth, Woodland Hills, Tarzana, Granada Hills, West Hills, Malibu, Calabasas, Agoura, Oxnard, Simi Valley, Moorpark, Camarillo, Santa Barbara, Los Angeles County, Ventura County and Santa Barbara County. Dr. Costanzo accepts insurance for his consultations.