Skin cancers are among the most commonly occurring, with a number equal to that of all breast cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer, and lung cancer occurrences combined.
The risk of squamous cell carcinoma is greatest in individuals with fair skin, those prone to sunburns, or a history of skin lesions which are precancerous, or a weakened immune system.
Squamous cell carcinoma is predominately caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays over the course of one’s life. Those who spend a great deal of time in direct sunlight throughout the year, indulge in intense exposure throughout the summer months, or utilize indoor tanning beds, are at a heightened risk as these habits cause skin damage which may eventually result in squamous cell carcinoma.
The skin’s outer layer consists of numerous thin, flat squamous cells. These cells are present all over the body, which means that squamous cell carcinoma can occur anywhere squamous cells are present.
Squamous cell carcinoma will often times appear as red patches which are scaly, as open sores, warts, or growths which are elevated. Crusting over, or bleeding may also occur, which may result in the area becoming disfigured. Squamous cell carcinoma is often times an aggressive cancer which if left untreated could spread to other areas of the body, leaving scarring. This cancer is not usually considered life threatening.
Treatment for Squamous Cell Carcinoma
The treatment of squamous cell carcinoma will vary based on the location of the tumor, it’s size, and the aggressiveness of the cancer. Often times treatment requires procedures which are considered invasive, and which may result in damage to the healthy surrounding skin leading to a painful healing process and longer recovery, in addition to scarring which can affect the patient’s confidence.
However, there is a non-surgical approach to treating squamous cell carcinoma. Superficial Radiation Therapy, provided by Sensus Healthcare’s SRT-100 which promises a precise, carefully calibrated dose of radiation therapy sent directly to the affected squamous cells. This approach effectively destroys cancer cells with the added bonus of not damaging the surrounding healthy tissue.
This non-invasive procedure has been approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration, and can be conveniently performed right in your physician’s office. This procedure does not require anesthesia, any form of incision, or stitching, and the patient can avoid painful recovery experiences and the risks involved, such as bleeding, infection, and scarring. This procedure requires no rest period or lifestyle restrictions.
Unlike the former surgical treatment method, patients of Superficial Radiation Therapy will not have to seek reconstructive plastic surgery after treatment. In addition, Superficial Radiation Therapy provides a squamous cell carcinoma treatment option for those patients who may have health risks which prevent them from undergoing surgical treatments.
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma skin cancer, ask us about SRT treatment options.
