The second most common form of skin cancer, the squamous cell carcinoma is found in those areas of the body that are damaged by the UV rays from the sun or tanning beds. Hands, legs, face, neck, and back are usually the areas that are exposed to the sun. The squamous cell carcinoma is a fairly slow type of cancer compared to the other types. It spreads to not only the tissues and bones but also the lymph nodes.

Risk factors for squamous cell carcinoma
The risk factors for squamous cell carcinoma include aging, fair skin, blonde or red hair, and spending more time exposed to the sun’s UV rays. Moreover, men and people who have blue, green, or grey eyes are more prone to squamous cell carcinoma as compared to others. Also, tanning beds and bulbs, Bowen’s disease, exposure to radiation, inherited DNA condition, and long-term exposure to chemicals such as arsenic are some of the risk factors of squamous cell carcinoma.

Symptoms of squamous cell carcinoma
A dome-shaped bump, red, patchy, or irritating skin are some of the common symptoms of squamous cell carcinoma. The skin usually gets rough and crusty and can bleed easily when scraped. The large growth may itch or hurt. There may be chronic skin sores or scars, where the cancer is developed.

Diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma
Your doctor may probably ask you to visit a dermatologist, who specializes in this condition. They will ask you about your medical history, exposure to the sun, history of indoor or outdoor tanning, the time when the spots started appearing, and experience of any pain on those spots. The doctor will also conduct a physical examination in order to know about the size, shape, texture, and color of the spot. The dermatologist will examine all the spots in your body. They will also examine the lymph nodes to makes sure that they aren’t harder or bigger than usual. If the doctor suspects anything unusual, then they will ask you to conduct a skin biopsy to send to the lab for testing.

Treatment for squamous cell carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma treatments are usually performed in a hospital clinic or doctor’s office by conducting minor surgeries. The squamous cell carcinoma treatment may vary depending on the size and location of squamous cell carcinoma. Some of the squamous cell carcinoma treatments that your doctor may choose are excision, Mohs surgery, lymph nodes surgery, dermabrasion, cryosurgery, topical chemotherapy, and even targeted medical treatment.