SKIN CANCER, SQUAMOUS-CELL |
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General Information
DEFINITION--A malignant growth of the epithelial layer (external surface) of the skin, especially in areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, ears, hands or arms.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMSA small, disfiguring, scaling, raised bump on the skin with a crusting ulcer in the center. The bump doesn't hurt or itch.
CAUSES & RISK FACTORSRisk increases with any of the following:
Excessive exposure to sunlight.
Overexposure to X-rays.
Light complexion.
Recent illness with chronic skin ulcers from any cause.
Repeated injury to the skin of athletes due to excessive perspiration, increased heat, friction of clothing and protective gear.
Age over 60.
HOW TO PREVENTWear sunscreen or a hat and protective clothing to protect skin from sun damage.
WHAT TO EXPECT
DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES
Your own observation of symptoms.
Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.
Biopsy (See Glossary).
SURGERYSometimes necessary to remove the growth.
NORMAL COURSE OF ILLNESSThis type of skin cancer responds well to treatment. It is usually curable in 2 weeks with treatment.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Cancer must be treated again in 10% of cases.
Cancer will spread to other tissue if untreated.
HOW TO TREAT
NOTE -- Follow your doctor's instructions. These instructions are supplemental.
MEDICAL TREATMENTRemoval of the growth may be with any of the following methods:
Surgical removal.
Scraping and removal by electrocautery (See Glossary) or laser beam.
Radiation therapy.
HOME TREATMENTAfter removal of the tumor, keep the area clean, dry and protected from clothing until healed. Your doctor will provide additional instructions, depending on the treatment used.
MEDICATION
For minor discomfort, you may use non-prescription drugs such as acetaminophen.
Your doctor may prescribe topical antibiotic ointment or cream to prevent infection after surgery.
ACTIVITYAfter treatment, resume normal activity as soon as possible.
DIETNo special diet.
CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF
You have symptoms of squamous-cell skin cancer.
The following occurs after treatment:
Redness, swelling, bleeding or tenderness occurs at the treatment site.
Pain cannot be controlled by non-prescription pain relievers.
The sore has not healed 3 weeks after treatment.
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