What Is Squamous Cell Carcinoma and What Causes It?

Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is a common type of skin cancer that arises from the squamous cells—flat cells found in the outer layer of the skin (the epidermis). SCC can also occur in other areas lined by squamous cells, such as the mouth, throat, lungs, and genitals, but it most frequently affects sun-exposed areas like the face, ears, neck, hands, and arms.
What Causes Squamous Cell Carcinoma?
The primary cause of SCC is DNA damage in skin cells, usually from long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Over time, this damage causes squamous cells to grow abnormally and uncontrollably.
Main Risk Factors:
- Chronic sun exposure or use of tanning beds
- Fair skin, light hair, and light eyes
- History of sunburns, especially in early life
- Weakened immune system (e.g., from organ transplants or HIV)
- Older age
- History of precancerous skin lesions (like actinic keratoses)
- Exposure to carcinogens (e.g., arsenic, industrial chemicals)
- Chronic skin inflammation or injury
- HPV (Human Papillomavirus) infection (especially for SCC in mucous membranes)
How It Develops:
SCC begins when DNA in squamous cells is damaged (often by UV rays), but the body fails to repair it. Over time, this can lead to mutations that cause cells to divide out of control, forming a tumor.
Is It Dangerous?
- It is important to catch SCC in it's early stages
- If left untreated, it can:
- Grow deeper into the skin and nearby tissues
- Cause disfigurement
- Spread (metastasize) to lymph nodes or other organs in rare cases
Symptoms of SCC:
- A scaly red patch
- A rough, thickened, or wart-like bump
- A sore that doesn’t heal or reopens repeatedly
- A raised growth with a central depression
- It may bleed, itch, or feel tender
Prevention Tips:
- Use broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
- Wear protective clothing and hats
- Avoid tanning beds
- Check your skin regularly for changes
- Visit a Dermatologist for routine skin checks
If you're concerned about a spot or lesion, early diagnosis makes a big difference—see a Dermatologist as soon as possible. At Lumen Dermatology they have a comprehensive range of services which includes everything from routine skin examinations to advanced procedures. Call us at 352-830-1500 and schedule a consultation today to receive a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique skin needs.


