Treatment for squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) depends on the size, location, and depth of the tumor, as well as the patient’s overall health. Most SCCs are highly treatable when detected early.
Surgical Options
- Excisional Surgery: The most common treatment, where the tumor and a margin of healthy tissue are removed.
- Mohs Surgery: A specialized technique used for tumors in cosmetically sensitive or high-risk areas (such as the face or ears). Thin layers of tissue are removed and examined until no cancer remains, preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
- Curettage and Electrodessication: Involves scraping away the tumor followed by cauterization. This is typically used for small, superficial SCCs.
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Cryotherapy: Freezing the cancer cells with liquid nitrogen. Best for very superficial lesions.
- Topical Medications: Prescription creams like 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) or imiquimod may be used for certain low-risk, superficial tumors.
- Photodynamic Therapy (PDT): A light-sensitive drug is applied to the tumor and then activated with a special light to destroy cancer cells.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation may be recommended for patients who cannot undergo surgery, for tumors in hard-to-treat areas, or to treat cancer that has spread to nearby lymph nodes.
Systemic Therapies
- Targeted Therapy: For advanced SCCs, targeted drugs may block specific molecules involved in cancer growth.
- Immunotherapy: Drugs like cemiplimab (a PD-1 inhibitor) may be used for metastatic or locally advanced SCC that is not suitable for surgery or radiation.
Follow-Up and Surveillance
After treatment, regular skin exams and follow-up visits are essential to monitor for recurrence or the development of new skin cancers.
