Squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell carcinoma are the two most common types of skin cancer in the United States. Squamous cell carcinoma can spread to healthy tissues and rarely be life-threatening, so treatment is paramount to successful outcomes. Dermatologists of Birmingham offers squamous cell carcinoma treatment for patients who live in Birmingham, and surrounding areas in Alabama.
What is Squamous Cell Carcinoma?
Squamous cell carcinoma is a common type of skin cancer that is caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet light including sunlight and tanning beds. While most squamous cell carcinoma grows slowly and aren’t life-threatening, some are more aggressive, grow rapidly and have a risk of spreading in your body. Since past ultraviolight causes the development of squamous cell carcinoma, most are found on chronically sun exposed areas such as the face, arms and upper trunk, though they can grow anywhere on your skin.
You may be at risk for developing the disease if you:
- Have light hair, light skin and eyes that are greyish, green or blue
- Do not tan easily
- Past use tanning beds
- Spend a lot of time outdoors without proper skin protection
- Have experienced severe burns to your skin
- Take certain medications
- Receive a diagnosis of actinic keratosis or conditions that cause lightened skin
- Work in an environment or have undergone treatment that exposes you to frequent or long-term X-rays
Benefits of Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment
Squamous cell carcinoma treatment removes the cancerous tissue and prevents the disease from spreading. If the condition is left untreated, squamous cell carcinoma can have an aggressive growth pattern that goes deep into the tissues and even lymph nodes or other organs in the body. Treatment minimizes this risk and will remove unsightly tumors.
When is Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment Recommended?
Treatment for squamous cell carcinoma is recommended in all cases to stop the cancer from spreading to other tissues.
What to Expect from Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment
Your board certified dermatologist performs a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma. A biopsy involves taking a small sample of the skin lesion and having a pathologist examine it under a microscope. Based upon the findings, your dermatologist may recommend:
- Surgical excision is the most common method for removing many of these cancers
- Mohs micrographic surgery offers the highest cure rate and least scarring
- Curettage and electrodessication for smaller, less aggressive tumors
- Topical medication for early disease
- Radiation for advanced cases where surgery isn’t adequate
Most squamous cell carcinomas can be successfully treated, and early detection improves the chances of completely removing the cancerous tissue with better outcomes and scarring. Surgical treatments are in-office with local anesthesia making the experience safe and relatively quick.
How Much Does Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment Cost in Birmingham?
Medical insurance typically covers a portion of the cost for squamous cell carcinoma. You may have some out-of-pocket expenses that we determine after your consultation. We offer several convenient payment options, including cash, checks, major credit cards and financing with affordable monthly payments.
Squamous cell carcinoma is a common type of skin cancer that can spread to healthy tissues and rarely be life-threatening. Dermatologists of Birmingham offers advanced squamous cell