How to Identify Squamous Cell Carcinoma

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As the second most common skin cancer, squamous cell carcinoma is a common condition affecting many people globally. Early detection of this condition increases the chances of successful management. Any suspicions you might have concerning the condition should lead you to Ali Hendi, MD’s office, where the Chevy Chase squamous cell carcinoma specialist can help you through diagnosis. If the condition advances, it could become life-threatening, so it is crucial to learn how you can identify it in its initial stage. The following information can help you spot a squamous cell carcinoma.

How it looks

Squamous cell carcinoma can develop anywhere on your body. However, it mainly occurs on the most exposed part of your skin, such as your face, ears, scalp, neck, shoulders, forearms, and hands. The condition can also develop in skin sores, scars, or other skin injury areas. The skin around the area where the condition develops will show signs of sun damage, such as loss of elasticity, pigment changes, and wrinkling.

Squamous cell carcinoma can appear as rough, thick, scaly patches that can bleed or crust. They can also resemble open sores or warts that refuse to heal completely. Sometimes, squamous cell carcinoma can show up as growths, raised at the edges and smaller central area, and can itch or bleed.

Note that squamous cell carcinoma can look completely different from the mentioned descriptions, and that is why you should not only report such issues but anything unusual in your body.

What You Should Do

You have many efforts to input to ensure that you identify the condition on time for effective treatment. Do not always be in a hurry to take a shower and dress. It is critical to examine yourself from head to toe at least once a month. This will help you keep an eye on any changes on your skin, such as lesion changes.

Check in with your doctor. Anytime you doubt something you have observed on your skin, it is good to trust your instinct and seek expert help. If you see a spot that does not seem right, your provider can help you rule them out or diagnose squamous cell carcinoma.

Have Regular Follow Up: If you have earlier been diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma or any other skin cancer type, it would be best to have regular follow-ups with your provider. You might be at more significant risk of the condition.

Protect yourself from the sun. Depending on your occupation and lifestyle, you might be spending too much time in the sun, putting yourself at the risk of skin cancers such as squamous cell carcinoma. But you can prevent this yourself by applying sunscreen and altering your lifestyle. Besides, your provider can examine your risks and advise you accordingly on ways to protect yourself.

Risk Factors for Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Several factors can increase your risks for squamous cell carcinoma, and knowing them can help you take extra precautions. They include:

  • Blonde or red hair
  • Green, blue, or gray eyes
  • Fair-skinned
  • Male
  • Older age
  • Radiation exposure
  • Weak immune system
  • Inherited DNA condition
  • Some complications such as HIV or AIDS and HPV

If you suspect anything unusual on your skin, contact the office of Ali Hendi, MD, today for help with the diagnosis of the condition. If you have squamous cell carcinoma, your provider can guide you through the treatment procedure.