Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Austin, TX

Skin cancer is a common cancer among men and women. Therefore, the best thing you can do for your skin and overall health is to see a board-certified dermatologist when a growth or a mole on your skin begins to change.

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type of skin cancer, affecting millions of people each year. It occurs when the cells on the upper layers of your skin (known as the squamous cells) mutate or change. This skin cancer due to excessive or chronic exposure to the sun's damaging UV rays. SCC can look wart-like in appearance or appear as a firm nodule on the skin that may flake and bleed when traumatized. It is important to have an assessment if you notice a suspicious growth. While squamous cell carcinoma is managed locally when treated it early, over time it has the potential to metastasize (spread to other areas of your body).

During your examination, Dr. Snyder or one of our many wonderful providers will tell you that there is no such thing as a "safe tan." Squamous cell carcinoma is visible on the skin and easier to treat when caught early. We invite you to our Austin, TX dermatology office for skin screening and consultation.

Having fair skin, a light complexion, or blue/green eyes increases your risk of skin cancer, but everyone has a risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma. Men and women who expose their skin to the sun for work or hobbies may have an increased risk of acquiring this type of skin cancer. Research studies have shown that it is more common in men than women and usually affects adults over the age of 50, although younger individuals can also develop SCC. Individuals who have used indoor tanning beds are also susceptible to SCC (and account for many of our new skin cancer patients each year). Other known risks factors for developing SCC are having radiation exposure in the past or from a suppressed immune system (due to medications or other medical conditions like leukemia).

As with any condition or cancer, paying attention to your skin and knowing what lesions and growths are present are important. If you notice a growth that begins to enlarge, crust over, itch, or bleed — this warrants a visit to the dermatologist. Squamous cell carcinoma will start to evolve on the surface of the skin and may even be mistaken for a wart or benign skin growth. Sometimes they are soft and tender, or they can present as scaly, rough, thick or firm spots that simply will not heal or are prone to bleeding. When any lesion on your skin starts to change in symmetry, color, shape, or size — it is always wise to visit a board-certified dermatologist. If left untreated, you risk more than just the appearance of your skin as SCC can become life-threatening.

At Snyder Dermatology in Austin, TX, we offer a number of treatment options for patients with SCC. If caught early, it will be easier to remove and scarring can usually be minimized. If left untreated for long periods of time, squamous cell carcinoma ca spreads internally, usually via lymph nodes. However, most are curable with in-office procedures.

Treatment varies based on the extent, depth, and size of cancer, the location, and the subtype of SCC. Once a diagnosis is established with a skin biopsy, our doctors will discuss the appropriate treatment for you. Treatment options may include excision, cryotherapy, electrodesiccation and curettage, chemotherapeutic medication that can be applied topically. Our amazing providers here at Snyder Dermatology will create a custom treatment plan based on your diagnosis so that the best possible outcome will be achieved.

Make a life-saving appointment at Snyder Dermatology in Austin, TX to have your skin examined for skin cancers, like squamous cell carcinoma. We strive to provide you with comprehensive, compassionate care so that you can live a healthy life and have year-round healthy skin. Please contact our office at your earliest convenience to schedule your examination.