Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common form of skin cancer, yet highly treatable when detected early. At Dermatology Associates Skin & Cancer Center, our team provides expert, compassionate care to help patients achieve excellent outcomes and lasting peace of mind.
Preserve Your Skin With Prompt Diagnosis & Treatment
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common type of non-melanoma skin cancer that arises from the squamous cells in the outer layer of your skin. It often develops in areas frequently exposed to sunlight, such as the face, ears, and hands. SCC can grow very quickly and spread if left untreated. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to achieving a full recovery. Our dermatology team offers prompt, expert care to ensure optimal outcomes.
Signs & Symptoms of Squamous Cell Carcinoma:
- A rough, scaly patch or raised growth that may crust or bleed
- A firm red bump that doesn’t heal or continues to grow over time
- An open sore that persists for weeks or reopens after healing
- A wart-like growth with a hard surface and irregular borders
- Thickened, rough skin on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, or hands
- Tenderness, itching, or pain at the site of a persistent lesion or scab
Professional SCC Screening & Diagnosis
During your skin exam, your dermatology provider will carefully examine any suspicious growths or lesions under magnification and strong lighting. Areas frequently exposed to the sun, like the face, scalp, and hands, receive special attention. You’ll be asked about recent changes in size, color, or bleeding to help guide an accurate assessment.
If your dermatology provider suspects squamous cell carcinoma, a biopsy will be performed to confirm the diagnosis. This involves removing a tissue sample under local anesthesia for microscopic evaluation. The results determine whether cancer cells are present and how advanced they are. With this information, your provider can create a personalized treatment plan.
Your SCC Treatment Options
Your treatment begins with a detailed consultation. During this visit, your dermatology provider will review your biopsy results, examine the affected area, and discuss the most effective options based on the cancer’s depth, size, and location. Your treatment plan is carefully designed to completely remove cancerous cells while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
Mohs Micrographic Surgery
Dr. Wolfe performs this technique for complex or high-risk tumors. The cancer is removed in thin, mapped layers, each immediately examined under a microscope to verify clear margins before proceeding. This precise approach offers the highest cure rate of up to 99% while preserving the greatest amount of healthy skin, especially in the face, ears, and hands.
Excisional Surgery
Excisional surgery involves surgically removing the entire visible tumor along with a predetermined margin of normal skin. The excised tissue is sent to a pathology lab for microscopic examination to confirm that no cancer cells remain at the edges. This method leaves larger scars and has a higher recurrence risk than Mohs surgery.
Cryosurgery
Cryosurgery uses controlled bursts of liquid nitrogen to rapidly freeze and destroy abnormal squamous cells. The extreme cold causes the targeted tissue to crystallize and die, allowing the body to shed the damaged layer over time. This non-invasive method is suitable for small or early-stage lesions but requires precise application to avoid damaging healthy skin.
Curettage and Electrodesiccation
During this office-based procedure, the visible skin cancer tumor is gently scraped off with a curette. The base of the lesion is then treated with an electric current to cauterize and destroy residual cancer cells. ED&C is typically used for thin, well-defined tumors on the trunk or limbs, where cosmetic outcomes are less critical.
Schedule Your Consultation With One of Our Dermatology Providers
Dermatology Associates Skin & Cancer Center is proud to serve Bay County with compassionate, expert care for all forms of skin cancer. Dr. Christopher Wolfe is our double board-certified, fellowship-trained Mohs micrographic and reconstructive surgeon, who brings unmatched expertise in skin cancer removal and reconstruction. His advanced training ensures optimal outcomes with minimal scarring. If you’ve noticed a suspicious lesion or need treatment, schedule your consultation today to receive expert skin cancer care.
