squamous cell carcinoma treatment San Juan Capistrano, CA

Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment in San Juan Capistrano, CA

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type of skin cancer. It often appears as a scaly red patch, a firm bump, or a sore that keeps returning on sun-exposed skin. When detected and treated early, SCC is highly curable. At HK Dermatology in San Juan Capistrano, CA , our team offers fast diagnosis and advanced treatments, including Mohs surgery and superficial radiation therapy.

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What Is Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

Squamous cell carcinoma develops in the flat squamous cells that make up the outer layers of the skin. It is usually caused by long-term ultraviolet exposure and frequently develops from actinic keratoses, the rough, precancerous patches that form on sun-damaged skin. Most SCCs are found early and cured with simple treatment. However, compared with basal cell carcinoma, SCC is more likely to grow deeply and, in some cases, spread to lymph nodes, so it should never be ignored.

Risk Factors

  • Fair skin, light eyes, and a tendency to burn
  • Years of outdoor work, sports, or sunbathing, and any tanning bed use
  • Many actinic keratoses or a history of skin cancer
  • A weakened immune system, including organ transplant recipients
  • Chronic wounds, burn scars, or prior radiation exposure
  • Exposure to chemicals such as arsenic or coal tar

Signs and Symptoms

SCC most often appears on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, lips, scalp, neck, backs of the hands, and forearms. Common signs include:

  • A firm, red bump or nodule
  • A rough, scaly, or crusted patch that may bleed
  • A sore that does not heal or heals and reopens
  • A wart-like growth that rises quickly
  • A raised growth with a central depression
  • A rough or scaly patch on the lip that may become an open sore

Any growth that is rapidly enlarging, tender, or bleeding should be evaluated promptly. A simple biopsy in our office confirms the diagnosis.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment

Treatment depends on the size, depth, and location of the cancer, as well as your health and preferences. HK Dermatology offers:

  • Mohs surgery: Mohs surgery removes the tumor one thin layer at a time with immediate microscopic examination, delivering a very high cure rate while sparing healthy tissue on the face, ears, lips, and hands.
  • Superficial radiation therapy: SRT is a non-surgical option for many SCCs, with no cutting or stitches and minimal downtime.
  • Surgical excision: The cancer is removed with a margin of healthy skin under local anesthesia.
  • Curettage and electrodesiccation: An option for some small, superficial SCCs.
  • Topical treatments: Selected early, in-situ cancers may respond to prescription creams.

Patient results are featured on our squamous cell treatment results page.

Prevention and Follow-Up

Treating actinic keratoses early is one of the best ways to prevent SCC. After treatment, regular skin exams are essential, since patients who have had one skin cancer are more likely to develop another. Use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every day, wear protective clothing, and avoid peak sun. If you are concerned about scarring, our team offers scar removal and fractional laser resurfacing once the area has fully healed. Learn more about melanoma or see all conditions we treat.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma FAQs

Is squamous cell carcinoma serious?

Most SCCs are caught early and cured with treatment. However, SCC can grow deeper and occasionally spread if left untreated, so prompt evaluation and treatment are important.

How is squamous cell carcinoma different from basal cell carcinoma?

Both are non-melanoma skin cancers caused mainly by sun exposure. SCC arises from squamous cells and has a somewhat higher chance of spreading, while basal cell carcinoma usually grows slowly and stays local.

Can squamous cell carcinoma be treated without surgery?

Yes, in many cases. Superficial radiation therapy and certain topical treatments are effective non-surgical options for appropriate tumors.

Does actinic keratosis turn into squamous cell carcinoma?

Some actinic keratoses can progress into SCC over time. Treating AKs early helps reduce this risk.

Is Mohs surgery painful?

Mohs surgery is performed under local anesthesia, so most patients feel only a small pinch from the numbing injection. Discomfort afterward is usually mild and managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

How often should I have skin checks after SCC?

Most patients are seen every three to twelve months after treatment, depending on their risk. Your provider will recommend a personalized follow-up schedule.

How do I schedule a skin cancer evaluation?

Call HK Dermatology at (949) 248-1632 or request an appointment online. Let our team know if you have a spot that is growing, bleeding, or not healing.

Schedule a Skin Cancer Evaluation Today

Early treatment of squamous cell carcinoma leads to the best outcomes. Call HK Dermatology at (949) 248-1632 or request an appointment online to see a dermatology provider in San Juan Capistrano, CA .

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