Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Skin – Symptoms and Causes

ByJanis Updated

What is Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a prevalent form of skin cancer that develops in the squamous cells, which are found in the middle and outer layers of the skin. This cancer type typically isn’t fatal, but it requires proper treatment to prevent complications.

Without treatment, SCC can grow larger or spread beyond the skin to other body parts, potentially causing serious health issues. The main cause of this cancer is too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight or tanning beds.

SCC can appear anywhere on the body. For people with fair skin who burn easily, these cancers commonly develop on sun-exposed areas.

In people with darker skin tones, squamous cell carcinomas can develop in areas that usually aren’t exposed to sunlight, such as the genital region.

Key facts about squamous cell carcinoma:

  • Develops in squamous cells of the skin
  • Second most common type of skin cancer
  • Usually not life-threatening if caught early
  • Can cause complications if left untreated
  • Primarily caused by UV radiation exposure

Protecting your skin from harmful UV rays is the most effective way to reduce your risk of developing skin cancer.

Signs and Symptoms

Squamous cell skin cancer usually shows up on parts of the body that get a lot of sun. This includes the scalp, hands, ears, and lips. However, it can appear anywhereโ€”even inside the mouth, on foot bottoms, or on private parts.

People with darker skin might get this cancer in areas that don’t see much sun.

You might notice:

  • A firm bump that could match your skin color or appear pink, red, black, or brown
  • A flat sore with scaly patches on top
  • A new growth on an old scar
  • A rough, scaly spot on your lip that might turn into an open sore
  • A sore or rough area inside your mouth
  • A raised patch or wart-like growth on genital areas

When You Should See a Healthcare Provider

Contact your doctor if you have:

  • A sore that hasn’t healed after about two months
  • A scab that won’t go away
  • A flat, scaly patch of skin that persists

Causes

Skin squamous cell carcinoma starts when DNA changes occur in squamous cells. These DNA changes give incorrect instructions to cells, making them grow rapidly and avoid natural death.

This abnormal growth creates excess cells that can destroy healthy tissue and potentially spread to other parts.

UV radiation is the primary cause of DNA changes in skin cells. This radiation comes from:

  • Sunlight exposure
  • Tanning lamps
  • Tanning beds

However, skin cancer sometimes develops on areas rarely exposed to sunlight. This suggests other factors may increase risk. A weakened immune system might be one such factor.

When cells receive altered DNA instructions, they begin to multiply without the normal controls that limit growth. Healthy cells typically follow a natural life cycle and die when damaged or old.

Cancer cells bypass these natural processes, continuing to grow and divide when they shouldn’t.

DNA:

  • Contains cellular instructions
  • Can be damaged by UV radiation
  • Changes can trigger abnormal cell growth

Altered cells invade nearby tissues and can spread to other parts of the body if untreated.

Risk Factors

Several factors can raise your chances of developing squamous cell carcinoma. Understanding these risk factors may help you take steps to protect yourself.

Skin Characteristics:

  • Fair skin that burns easily
  • Blond or red hair
  • Light-colored eyes
  • Tendency to freckle

People with darker skin have more melanin, which offers some protection against harmful UV rays. However, skin cancer can affect anyone, regardless of skin color.

Sun Exposure:

  • Excessive time in the sun without protection
  • History of blistering sunburns, especially in childhood
  • Regular use of indoor tanning beds

UV radiation damages skin cells and can lead to cancer over time. Each sunburn increases your risk.

Medical History:

  • Previous skin cancer diagnosis
  • Precancerous skin conditions (like actinic keratosis)
  • Weakened immune system from conditions or medications
  • HPV infection
  • Chronic skin wounds or scars that don’t heal

People who have had squamous cell carcinoma before face a higher risk of developing it again. Those who take immunosuppressing medications after organ transplants or who have certain blood cancers may also face increased risk.

Genetic Factors:

  • Rare conditions like xeroderma pigmentosum, which causes extreme sensitivity to sunlight

This inherited condition severely limits the skin’s ability to repair damage from UV radiation.

Protection Strategies:

  • Wear protective clothing
  • Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen
  • Seek shade during peak sun hours
  • Avoid tanning beds
  • Get regular skin checks

Timely detection significantly enhances the effectiveness of treatment outcomes. Pay special attention to changes in existing moles, sores that don’t heal, or new growths on your skin.

Possible Problems

Skin squamous cell carcinoma that goes untreated can damage healthy tissue around it. This cancer can also spread to lymph nodes and other organs in the body. Though rare, it can be deadly in some cases.

Some factors increase the risk of this cancer spreading:

  • Size and depth – Very large or deep tumors are more dangerous.
  • Location – Cancers on the lips or other mucous membranes may spread more easily.
  • Immune system – People with weakened immune systems face higher risks.

Immune system problems might come from chronic leukemia or from medications taken after organ transplants that suppress immunity. These conditions make it harder for the body to fight cancer.

Ways to Prevent Skin Cancer

Protecting yourself from squamous cell carcinoma is possible with some simple habits.

Here are several ways to reduce your risk:

  • Avoid midday sun exposure. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. in North America. Try to schedule outdoor activities outside these hours. Seek shade when you’re outside, even on cloudy or winter days.
  • Use sunscreen regularly. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, regardless of weather. Put on a generous amount and reapply every two hours. If you’re swimming or sweating, apply it more often.
  • Dress for protection. Wear:
    • Dark, tightly woven clothing that covers arms and legs
    • A wide-brimmed hat to protect your face, ears and neck
    • Sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays
  • Avoid tanning beds completely. These devices emit harmful UV radiation, which significantly increases skin cancer.
  • Check your skin regularly. Look for:
    • New growths
    • Changes in existing moles, freckles, or birthmarks
    • Unusual bumps or spots

Examine all areas of your body, including places that don’t get sun exposure.

Use mirrors to check hard-to-see areas like your back, scalp, and between your toes. Don’t forget to check between the buttocks and genital area.

Report any concerning changes to your doctor promptly. Early detection makes treatment much more effective.


Related Questions

Responses are AI-generated

Health Writer

Janis's areas of expertise include nutrition, exercise, stress management, and mental health. She is passionate about educating and empowering people to take control of their health and make positive changes that can last a lifetime. Janis believes that small, sustainable changes are the key to long-term success, and she works with her clients to develop personalized plans that fit their individual needs and lifestyles.