Download squamous cell carcinoma (scc) - Derby Hospitals NHS Foundation

Squamous cell
carcinoma (SCC)
What is a squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)?
A squamous cell carcinoma is a form of skin cancer which starts in the surface cells in the skin.
It is slow growing and usually remains in the outer layer of the skin. However, if left untreated
SCC’s have the ability to spread to other organs of the body - although this is rare.
Their appearance varies but often there is an open sore which may bleed or crust - but does not
heal.
The most likely sites for developing an SCC are areas of sun-exposed skin such as the face,
neck, lips, ears, hands, shoulders and limbs.
What causes a squamous cell carcinoma?
SCC’s are caused mainly by long term exposure to sunlight. People most at risk are outdoor
workers, people who have spent time in hot countries or the pursuit of an outdoor sport and
those with very fair skin.
Other less common causes are prolonged exposure to x-ray therapy, soot or certain chemicals
such as arsenic.
Signs and symptoms
SCC’s frequently appear as an open sore, which may bleed or crust - but does not heal.
Alternatively, they may look like:
•
a red scaly irregular patch which may itch or crust.
•
a raised growth with an indentation in the centre.
•
a scaly warty lump which can be flesh coloured, pink or whitish.
How are SCCs treated?
Most SCCs are removed surgically under a local anaesthetic (which means you will be awake
throughout). However in certain places radiotherapy (x-rays) may be used.
The type of treatment you receive will depend on the size, type, site and stage of SCC you
have.
What happens next?
Once your treatment is completed, you will be asked to attend regular follow-up appointments at
the hospital. This is to ensure that any recurrence is detected early.
Cosmetic advice is available through a referral from the doctor responsible for your treatment.
Please ask if required.
Caring for your skin
Once you have had a skin cancer you are slightly more at risk of developing another. It is
therefore important to check your skin regularly - you will then recognise immediately if any
changes occur.
The best way to prevent any type of skin cancer is to limit your stay in the sun.
If you need to go into the sun, cover up with a wide brimmed hat, long sleeved shirt or blouse
and long trousers or skirt. Wear a high protection factor sunscreen on exposed skin every time
you go outdoors - even on overcast days and especially during the summer.
Skin does change as we get older and most changes are perfectly normal. If you notice any
changes, for example - red patches, spots or ulcers, new moles or changes in existing ones,
please see your GP. There will probably be nothing to worry about, but at least it will put your
mind at rest.
If you have any queries, or require further information
please contact any of the following:
Dermatology Outpatient Department (Skin Clinic)
at the London Road Community Hospital.
Telephone 01332 254735.
Macmillan Information Centre
Cancer and Specialist Services
at the Royal Derby Hospital.
Telephone 01332 786008.
Marc’s Line
Melanoma and Related Cancers of the Skin
Marc’s Line Resource Centre,
Dermatology Treatment Centre,
Level 3, Salisbury District Hospital,
Salisbury, Wiltshire. SP2 8BJ.
Telephone 01722 415071.
Any external organisations and websites included here do not necessarily reflect the views of the Derby Hospitals NHS
Foundation Trust, nor does their inclusion constitute a recommendation.
Reference Code: P0567/0346/10.2009/VERSION4
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permission in writing from the Patient Information Service, Derby Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. (G6631/01.2003/V3)