Squamous Cell Carcinoma Flashcards
1
Q
what is a squamous cell carcinoma?
A
locally invasive malignant tumour of epidermal keratinocytes
2
Q
what are the charateristics of a squamous cell carcinoma?
A
- cause pain, tenderness or bleeding
- grow over weeks or months
- sometimes metastasise
3
Q
what is the cutaneous presentation of a squamous cell carcinoma?
A
- irregular, ill-defined red nodule
- scale and ulceration
- located on sun exposed areas of the body
4
Q
what are the risk factors for developing squamous cell carcinoma?
A
- type I or II skin
- history of frequent or severe previous sun burn
- outdoor occupation or hobbies
- personal or family history of skin cancer
- immunosuppresion - especially following an organ transplant
- smoking
- premalignant skin conditions (e.g. actinic keratosis or bowen’s disease)
- increasing age
- male sex
5
Q
what is bowen’s disease?
also known as intraepidermal SCC or SCC in situ
A
- pre-malignant as tumour cells are confined to the epidermis
- full thickness
6
Q
what does bowen’s disease look like?
A
- irregular, red, keratinised, scaly plaques
- located on areas of sun exposed skin
7
Q
what is the surgical management of squamous cell carcinoma?
A
- surgical excision
- cirettage and cautery
- mohs micrographic surgery - if SCC is in a cosmetically sensitive area, is ill-defined or recurrent
8
Q
what is mohs micrographic surgery?
A
involves examining the excised tissue under the microscope as it is removed to ensure al the cancerous cells are removed whilst preserving the maximum amount of healthy tissue
9
Q
what is the medical management of squamous cell carcinoma?
A
- cryotherapy
- radiotherapy if surgery is inappropriate
