Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment

Squamous Cell Carcinoma is a type of skin cancer caused by overproduction of squamous cells in the top layer of the skin (epidermis). Squamous cell carcinoma is one of the most common skin cancers and is usually caused by ultraviolet radiation. It affects the mouth, tongue, face, lips, stomach, and more.

Consult with the best dermatologists for squamous cell carcinoma treatment at the CK Birla Hospital.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma TreatmentSquamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment

What is Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

Squamous cell carcinoma starts in the squamous cells symptoms like a firm bump on the skin, flat sore, rough patch inside mouth, and more. People with long term sun exposure, aged above 65 years, have a weak immune system, have a pale complexion, are at higher risk of developing this condition.

What are the Types of Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

Cutaneous: Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that affects the top layer of the skin.
Metastatic: Metastatic is a type of squamous cell carcinoma that affects other parts of the body, beyond the skin.

What are the Types of Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatments?

Systemic Chemotherapy: Medicines/drugs are used to kill cancer cells in the body.
Surgery: A procedure involving the removal of layers of skin affected by cancer. Surgery is most commonly recommended for facial cancers.
Photodynamic Therapy: The treatment process involves using a blue light and a light-sensitive agent to destroy cancer cells.
Electrodessication & Curettage: Treatment process involving using a special electric needle to burn the cancerous lump after it has been scraped off with a curette.
Excision: Invasive procedure involving removing the cancer from the skin and stitching the skin back.

What is the Average Cost of Various Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatments?

Systemic Chemotherapy: Ranges from ₹60,000 to ₹1,80,000 per cycle
Surgery: Priced at ₹40,000 to ₹1,20,000 depending on complexity
Photodynamic Therapy: Typically costs ₹25,000 to ₹60,000
Electrodessication & Curettage: Charged around ₹15,000 to ₹35,000
Excision: Costs approximately ₹30,000 to ₹80,000

Note: The above costs are approximate and can vary based on factors such as the severity of the allergy, the specific treatment plan, the healthcare facility, and geographic location.

Complications with Untreated Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

Local Invasion & Damage: Untreated squamous cell carcinoma can damage healthy tissues and also erode into deeper layers of skin, potentially invading the nerves and bones.
Metastasis: The cancer can spread to lymph nodes and distant organs like the brain, lungs, etc.
Poor Cosmetics: An untreated squamous cell carcinoma can lead to scarring and changes in the appearance of the affected area.
Pain & Functional Impairment: The growing cancer may invade the surrounding tissues, causing pain and depending upon the location of the squamous cell carcinoma, it can cause functional impairment like difficulty chewing, swallowing, speaking, etc.

Preventive Measures Against Squamous Cell CarcinomaPreventive Measures Against Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Avoid excessive sun exposure and refrain from using tanning beds.
Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen when going outdoors.
Wear protective clothing to protect from UV rays, like full sleeves, caps, etc.
Self-examine your skin monthly & check for new changes, growths, discolouration, etc.
Avoid smoking & exposure to harmful chemicals.
Visit a dermatologist annually for evaluation.
Eat a balanced diet rich in antioxidants & keep the skin moisturised.

Diagnosis of Squamous Cell CarcinomaDiagnosis of Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma can be done by a thorough physical examination by a dermatologist. The specialist might ask questions about the symptoms, including:
When did you notice the lump or lesion on the skin?
Is the lump or lesion painful or itchy?
Did the lump or lesion change in size since you noticed it for the first time?

Skin Biopsy: Procedure involving testing a sample of affected tissue to determine if the condition is benign or malignant.

MRI: To check if it has spread to other parts of the body.

Pre-Treatment Instructions:Pre-Treatment Instructions:

Avoid applying creams or medications to the affected area.
Eat a light meal or follow the fasting instructions.
Arrange for someone to accompany you, particularly if sedition is planned.
Keep the affected area clean & dry.
Avoid blood-thinning medicines or other medicines advised by your doctor.

Post-Treatment Instructions:Post-Treatment Instructions:

Keep the affected area clean and dry for 48 hours.
Apply prescribed ointments as advised.
Do not scratch or pick at the site.
Watch for signs of infection like redness, pus, and pain.
Attend all the follow-up appointments for the wound check.

Recovery After Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment:Recovery After Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment:

Recovery from squamous cell carcinoma varies depending on the stage of cancer and the type of treatment. Early stage detection and treatment have better treatment outcomes and a relatively faster recovery.

Minor surgery for the treatment of squamous cell carcinoma may take around 6 weeks to recover.
An extensive procedure may take 6 weeks to a few months to recover completely.