What are the treatment options for squamous cell carcinoma?

Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer arising from squamous cells. A plan depends on the confirmed diagnosis, tumour size and depth, exact site, borders, previous treatment, and your general health. The clinician may examine nearby skin and lymph nodes and may review a biopsy report. Treatment should be arranged with an appropriate skin-cancer team rather than delayed while trying home remedies.

Surgical excision removes the tumour with a surrounding margin of skin, followed by closure or another method of wound repair. Mohs surgery removes the visible tumour in stages while checking each layer’s edges during the procedure; it can help conserve healthy tissue in selected sites, especially where preserving function or appearance matters. Skin cancer surgery is a broader term that may include removal and reconstruction tailored to the tumour. Your clinician will explain whether tissue examination, wound care, or follow-up is needed after surgery.

Arrange prompt dermatology review for a sore that does not heal, a rough or scaly patch that enlarges, a firm growing bump, or a lesion that repeatedly bleeds or crusts. If squamous cell carcinoma has already been diagnosed, contact the treating team promptly about a new lump, increasing pain, bleeding, wound separation, or a change near the treatment site. Urgent care is appropriate for uncontrolled bleeding, severe infection symptoms, or sudden functional problems near the eye, nose, mouth, or ear.

Ask how the diagnosis was confirmed, what the tumour’s site and features mean for treatment, and whether excision or Mohs surgery is recommended. Ask how much tissue may be removed, how the wound will be closed, whether reconstruction is needed, and what follow-up checks will look for recurrence or another skin cancer.