Our Services / Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Red, scaly skin patches or persistent sores may indicate a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. At Aloe Dermatology in Santa Barbara, Santa Ynez, and Solvang, California, the highly skilled dermatology experts safely remove skin cancer to prevent complications. Call the office to learn more, or use the online booking tab today.

What is squamous cell carcinoma?

Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common form of skin cancer that may present as various tissue irregularities. The experienced dermatology experts at Aloe Dermatology diagnose and treat all types of skin cancer, including squamous cell carcinoma, to prevent the cancer from spreading.

What are the symptoms of squamous cell carcinoma?

The symptoms of squamous cell carcinoma include:

• Scaly, sore, red skin lesions
• Firm red bumps
• Bleeding sores that grow in size
• Crusting
• Wart-like lumps

Squamous cell carcinoma is usually a localized issue, but it can spread to other parts of your body and become life-threatening when left untreated. 

What are the risk factors for squamous cell carcinoma?

A family history of squamous cell carcinoma, personal history of skin cancer, and unprotected sun exposure are risk factors for squamous cell carcinoma. Protect your skin from the sun using sunscreen or protective clothing, complete routine skin checks, and see your dermatologist at the first sign of unusual skin changes. 

Do I have squamous cell carcinoma?

Your Aloe Dermatology specialist diagnoses squamous cell carcinoma and other forms of skin cancer after discussing your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle. They examine new or unusual skin changes and send a biopsy (tissue sample) to a lab to make a final diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan. 

Your dermatology specialist personalizes each treatment to effectively accommodate your needs.

How is squamous cell carcinoma treated?

Aloe Dermatology offers the following treatments for squamous cell carcinoma:

• Excision
• Mohs surgery
• Electrodesiccation and curettage 
• Cryosurgery
• Laser surgery
• Topical medications
• Photodynamic therapy
• Radiation therapy 

Mohs surgery is a skin cancer treatment in which your surgeon removes targeted tissues, layer by layer, and looks at them under a microscope to entirely eliminate cancer cells. 

You may need more than one type of cancer treatment to ensure superior results. It’s important to keep the treatment area clean and always protect your skin from the sun.

Your Aloe Dermatology provider can coordinate skin cancer treatment with other specialists to ensure you receive the most effective care. 

Call the Aloe Dermatology office or use the online booking tab today if you suspect squamous cell carcinoma.