No, by definition, a squamous cell carcinoma cannot be benign. A squamous cell carcinoma is a type of cancer that affects cells in the epidermis—the outermost layer of skin. This type of cancer begins in the squamous cells, which make up most of the epidermis.
Squamous cell carcinomas can occur anywhere on the body but are more common in areas frequently exposed to the sun such as the face, ears, and neck. While benign lesions can arise from squamous cells, such as actinic keratosis, it is not called a squamous cell carcinoma unless it is found to be malignant.
Malignant squamous cell carcinomas are much more invasive and advance more quickly than benign lesions, and can spread to other parts of the body. Therefore, it is not possible for a squamous cell carcinoma to be benign.
Table of Contents
Is squamous cell cancer always skin cancer?
No, squamous cell cancer is not always skin cancer. Squamous cell cancer (also known as squamous cell carcinoma) can occur in many different parts of the body, including the lungs, esophagus, larynx, head and neck, cervix, bladder, and vagina.
Squamous cell cancer of the skin is the most common type of skin cancer and it arises from the squamous cells that form the outer layer of the skin. In rare cases, squamous cell cancer can also occur in the stomach, kidney, and urinary tract.
Where is squamous cell cancer usually found?
Squamous cell cancer is a type of skin cancer that is commonly found on areas of the body that are most exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, neck, lips, and backs of the hands. It can also be found on the genitals and other areas that may be exposed to UV radiation, as well as in the respiratory system, such as the lungs.
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer, preceded by basal cell carcinoma. It is more likely to spread and become life-threatening if not appropriately treated. Signs and symptoms of squamous cell cancer can include a scaly red patch, an open sore that doesn’t heal, an elevated growth with a central depression, and a lump with a rough, crusted surface.
Treatment of squamous cell cancer usually involves surgical removal of the affected area. Depending on the severity and stage of the cancer, other treatment options include cryotherapy (freezing the cancer cells), radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
Should I worry if I have squamous cell carcinoma?
Yes, if you have been diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma, it is important to take the necessary steps to ensure that it is properly treated. Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of cancer that typically develops in the outer layers of the skin.
It is typically caused by exposure to ultraviolet light from the sun or tanning beds. This type of cancer can also occur in other parts of the body, such as the throat, mouth, or lungs. If left untreated, squamous cell carcinoma can lead to serious health complications, including disfigurement, extreme pain, and in some cases, death.
Due to the seriousness of the disease, it is important to seek medical care as soon as possible. If you are diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma, your doctor will likely recommend surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy to treat the cancer.
Treatments may vary depending on the stage of the cancer and how far it has spread. In some cases, the cancer may not require treatment, as it may be slow-growing and not likely to spread further.
No matter what, it is important to discuss your options with your doctor. Working together, you can develop a treatment plan that is right for you. Additionally, your physician may also suggest lifestyle changes that may reduce your chances of squamous cell carcinoma returning.
What are the first signs of squamous cell carcinoma?
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a type of skin cancer that develops from squamous cells, which are the cells that make up the outer layer of the skin. Early signs of SCC can be difficult to spot, however, some warning signs to look out for include developing a lump on your skin, rough patch of skin, red patch of skin, scaling or thickening of the skin, wart-like growth, or sore that won’t heal.
The lump or sore may sometimes ooze pus or bleed, and may form a scab that reoccurs. It is important to stay vigilant in your self-checks and get any new skin growths or changes examined by a doctor right away.
In addition, an SCC growth may be accompanied by itching, burning, and pain. Someone who has already had skin cancer can also be at a heightened risk for developing SCC, as this cancer is known for having a high rate of reoccurrence.
The earlier one can detect SCC and begin treatment, the better the chance of a successful outcome.
Where does squamous cell carcinoma spread first?
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) can spread, or metastasize, depending on the aggressiveness and size of the cancer. It can spread to local lymph nodes and can also spread to other parts of the body through the blood or lymphatic system, depending on the size and aggressiveness of the cancer.
Small tumors generally do not spread, but larger tumors can. If the tumor is located in the head and neck area, it may spread to local lymph nodes in the neck first, before spreading to other parts of the body.
If it’s located in the lungs, SCC can possibly spread to the lymph nodes in the chest, as well as spread to other organs in the body.
SCC can also spread to the brain, bones, liver, and other organs. It is important to have regular check-ups with a doctor when dealing with SCC to identify any changes in the cancer early on, in order to begin the most effective treatments.
Which is the considered highest risk site in squamous cell carcinoma?
The highest risk site for squamous cell carcinoma is the head and neck region. This includes the skin, lips, mouth, tongue, nose, and throat. These areas are prone to developing squamous cell carcinomas due to increased exposure to ultraviolet rays (UV) from the sun and other external sources.
Squamous cell carcinoma also tends to occur more frequently in areas of the body that are exposed to environmental carcinogens, such as cigarettes and other forms of tobacco smoke or poisonous chemicals found in some workplaces.
Additionally, individuals who are immunocompromised due to other underlying medical conditions may be more likely to develop squamous cell carcinomas in the head and neck area.
How long does it take squamous cell skin cancer to spread?
The rate at which squamous cell skin cancer spreads can vary greatly and depends on many factors, including the size and location of the tumor, overall health, and the type and stage of the cancer. In general, squamous cell skin cancer tends to grow and spread more slowly than other types of skin cancer, such as melanoma.
In most cases, it can take months to years for squamous cell skin cancer to spread locally, and even longer for it to spread to other parts of the body.
That being said, it is important to keep in mind that the cancer can spread rapidly in certain cases, especially if the tumor is large, located near the eyes, ears, or mouth, or if the tumor is an aggressive form.
Furthermore, even if the cancer does not appear to be spreading, it is still important to receive medical treatment as soon as possible to reduce the risk of spreading and ensure that the cancer is detected and treated in its early stages.
Additionally, it is also important to regularly check the skin for any new growths or changes in existing moles and have them checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
How long does it take for SCC to metastasize?
SCC is a type of skin cancer, and the amount of time it takes for metastasis depends on the specific tumor, the size of the tumor, the stage of progression, and other individual factors. Generally, SCC can spread relatively quickly, as early as within 2 to 8 weeks.
Metastasis typically occurs through the regional lymph nodes or distant metastasis, such as through the lungs, regional and distant lymph nodes, and other organs.
In some cases, SCC is a type of skin cancer that may spread to distant organs relatively quickly because of their aggressive nature. However, most cases do not result in metastasis until January-April, as the tumor has grown more quickly during this period.
In most cases, SCC metastasis can occur anywhere from 6 to 12 months after the original diagnosis.
Overall, the amount of time it takes for SCC to metastasize can vary depending on a variety of factors and is often unpredictable. It is important to be aware of changes in any skin lesions, lumps or moles, and to contact a medical professional if any odd changes are noticed, to ensure the best outcome.
