Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Most cases of squamous cell carcinoma can be cured when found early and treated properly. Today, many treatment options are available, and most are easily performed at the dermatology office.
Causes
Squamous cell carcinoma can take several forms:
- Crusted or scaly area on the skin with a red, inflamed base
- Persistent, non-healing, ulcerated bump or thickened skin on the lower lip
- Wart-like growth or plaque
- Red, scaly patches or bumps
![doctor examining woman's back.](https://www.dermatologyinc.com/wp-content/uploads/squamous-cell-carcinoma-symptoms.jpg)
Treatment
Surgery is often recommended to remove squamous cell lesions, particularly those classified as high risk.
- MOHS surgery- involves excising the visible parts of a squamous cell cancer, then removing successive layers of skin that may contain cancer cells.
- Each layer is examined under a microscope for signs of cancer.
- Successive layers are removed until there are no cancer cells left in the area.
Protecting yourself from the sun & avoiding tanning beds are the 2 best ways to minimize your risk of any type of skin cancer. Apply sunscreen on exposed areas of skin, even on cool or cloudy days
![young scientist looking into microscope.](https://www.dermatologyinc.com/wp-content/uploads/squamous-cell-carcinoma-treatments.jpg)
Meet our Medical Providers
- Robert H. Huff, MD, FAAD Avon, Lebanon
- Ryan K. Brashear, MD, FAAD Greenwood
- Christopher M. Bohyer, MD, FAAD Greenwood, New Castle
- John B. Stephens, MD, FAAD Fishers, Greencastle, Hazel Dell
- Alison Launhardt, MD, FAAD Carmel, Tipton
- Kathleen Hanover, MD, FAAD Carmel, Fishers
- Lisa Trivedi, MD, FAAD Carmel
- Janelle M. Tabet, PA-C Greenwood
- Cassandra (Cassie) M. Sexson, PA-C Greenwood, Shelbyville
- Andrew Burns, PA-C Greencastle, Hazel Dell
- Stephanie Burns, PA-C Greenwood, New Castle
- Michaela Wehr, PA-C Avon, Lebanon
- Samantha Kitcoff, PA-C Fishers
- Christina Raynor, FNP-C Avon