Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma is a common skin cancer that forms in your squamous cells, which make up the upper layer of your skin called the epidermis. The most common cause of this disease is intense exposure to sun or ultraviolet rays over time.

Squamous cells are commonly found on:

  • The surface of your skin.
  • Your face, ears, neck, hands or arms (areas with frequent sun exposure).

  • The lining of your hollow organs (stomach, colon, gallbladder, small intestines, bile ducts, fallopian tubes, uterus and bladder).

  • The lining of your respiratory and digestive tracts.

Additionally, cancers that form in your anus, cervix, head and neck and vagina can also be squamous cell carcinomas.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma Symptoms

The doctors and staff at St. Elizabeth have years of experience in knowing what to look for in patients that may have squamous cell carcinoma.

In addition to other skin cancer symptoms, you may have:

  • A growing bump with a rough, scaly surface.
  • An area of your skin with flat reddish patches.

  • Scaly, crusted and large reddish patches that are larger than 1 inch.

  • A sore that does not heal after an extended time.

  • Changes in an existing wart, mole or skin lesion.

Skin Cancer Prevention

Make an appointment

For more information, please contact your oncologist or the Cancer Care Center at (859) 301-4000.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma Diagnosis

We know that early diagnosis is key to successfully fighting non-small cell lung cancer. St. Elizabeth Healthcare offers the most advanced technology to diagnose your cancer beginning with a physical exam by your physician. You may also have other tests including a biopsy to determine if a tissue sample is cancerous.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment

You have many treatment options for your skin cancer depending on your general health and the type of your cancer. At St. Elizabeth Healthcare, we provide treatment that combines state-of-the-art technology with compassionate, professional care. Our goal is to help you enjoy the highest possible quality of life while battling this disease.

Your Cancer Care Team

Cancer Research Physicians

The team includes medical oncologists specializing in immunotherapy and precision medicine, surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, interventional radiologists, thoracic surgeons, pain management specialists, genetic counselors, pathologists, nutritionists, pharmacists, nurses and support staff. They work together to create a treatment plan that’s just right for you.

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