Australia’s high levels of UV radiation make skin cancer, particularly squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), a pressing health issue. This article will provide a detailed overview of SCC, including its stages, squamous cell carcinoma treatment options, prevention strategies, and the importance of early detection.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma: What Is It?

It is a type of skin cancer that begins in the squamous cells, which comprise most of the skin ’s upper layers (the epidermis). In Australia, where levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation are the highest in the world, SCC is quite common, especially among fair-skinned individuals. According to the Cancer Council of Australia, SCC accounts for approximately 30% of all non-melanoma skin cancers.

Understanding SCC

Given the high incidence rates of skin cancers in Australia, it pays to know the possible causes and risk factors of Squamous Cell Carcinoma and other types of skin cancer.

Causes and Risk Factors

SCC is primarily caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. Risk factors include the following:

• Fair Skin: Individuals with lighter skin are more prone to damage from UV radiation.
• Age: Older adults are more at risk, as skin damage accumulates over time.
• History of Sunburns: Frequent sunburns, particularly in early life, increase risk.
• Immunosuppression: People with weakened immune systems, such as organ transplant recipients, are at higher risk of skin cancer in Australia.
• Exposure to Chemicals: Contact with carcinogens like arsenic can also contribute to SCC.

Stages of Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Like any other type of cancer, SCC manifests and progresses in different stages.

• In-Situ (Bowen’s Disease): The cancer is confined to the top layer of the skin and has not invaded deeper tissues.
• Invasive SCC: The cancer has penetrated the deeper layers of the skin but has not spread to other body parts.
• Metastatic SCC: The cancer has spread (metastasized) to other parts of the body, such as lymph nodes or organs.

Diagnosis of Squamous Cell Carcinoma

We shared a similar post outlining the signs and symptoms of SCC. Check the post here to learn more about the physical manifestations of this type of cancer.

Importance of Early Detection

Identifying squamous cell carcinoma stages can lead to a more favourable prognosis and a higher chance of complete recovery.

Diagnostic Methods

SCC is usually detected using the following methods:

• Biopsy: A small sample of tissue is removed and examined under a microscope
• Imaging Tests: In some cases, imaging tests like CT scans may be used to determine if the cancer has spread.

Available Treatment Options

If detected while still in its nascent stages, SCC is highly treatable. The cancer is removed from the body through surgical or non-surgical procedures, depending on its size, shape and location.

Surgical Procedures

• Excision: The cancerous tissue, along with some surrounding healthy tissue, is cut out.
• Mohs Surgery: This precise technique involves removing the cancer layer by layer and examining each under a microscope until no abnormal cells remain.
  Radiation Therapy and Chemotherapy
• Radiation Therapy: This squamous cell carcinoma treatment is often used for patients who cannot undergo surgery. It involves using high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: This procedure is generally reserved for advanced cases where SCC has spread beyond the skin.

Immunotherapy and Targeted Therapy

These treatments harness the body’s immune system to fight cancer or target specific molecules involved in the growth and survival of cancer cells. They are emerging as promising options for advanced cases.

Protection and Aftercare for Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Preventing SCC involves a proactive approach to sun safety and regular skin check-ups. Here are key prevention strategies:

Sun Protection and Lifestyle Changes

For best sun protection, use all five SunSmart steps:

• Slip on covering clothing

Choose clothing that covers as much skin as possible, for example, collared shirts with long sleeves. Some clothing may carry an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF), which is a guarantee of how much UV protection a fabric provides.

• Slop on SPF 50 or SPF50+, broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen

Apply a generous amount of sunscreen to clean, dry skin at least 20 minutes before you go outside. The average-sized adult will need a teaspoon of sunscreen for their head and neck, each limb and the front and back of the body. That’s about seven teaspoons (35mL) for a full body application. Reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming or excessive sweating.

Remember, sunscreen is not a suit of armour and should be used with other sun protection measures.

• Slap on a hat

Choose, a broad-brimmed, legionnaire or bucket style hat which shades your face, nose, neck and ears, which are common sites for skin cancers. Caps and visors do not provide enough protection.

• Seek shade

Use trees, built shade structures, or bring your own (such as a sunshade tent)! Shade reduces UV radiation, but it can still reach you via reflection, so make sure you use shade in combination with other sun protection measures.

• Slide on some sunglasses

Sunglasses and a broad-brimmed hat worn together can reduce UV radiation exposure to the eyes by up to 98%. Sunglasses should be worn outside during daylight hours. Choose close-fitting wraparound sunglasses that meet the Australian Standard AS/NSZ 1067.

Regular Skin Checks and Follow-up

Regular skin checks by a dermatologist are crucial, especially for individuals with a history of skin cancer. Early detection through routine examinations can be lifesaving..

Success Rates for Early Detection and Treatment

The success rate for detecting early squamous cell carcinoma stages and removing the cancer is high. Studies have shown that the five-year survival rate for localised SCC (stage I or II) is typically over 90%. This means that 90% of people diagnosed with early-stage SCC are expected to survive for at least five years after treatment.

Factors Affecting Treatment Success

Several factors can affect the success rate of squamous cell carcinoma treatment, including:

• Stage of the Cancer: Early-stage SCC is generally easier to treat than advanced-stage disease.
• Location of the Tumour: SCCs on the head and neck may be more difficult to treat than those on other parts of the body.
• Overall Health of the Patient: People with underlying health conditions may have a higher risk of complications from treatment.
• Type of Treatment: The chosen treatment method can also affect the outcome.

The Importance of Regular Skin Checks

Given the high risk of getting skin cancer in Australia, annual visits to a dermatologist are imperative. Regular skin exams by a dermatologist are essential for early detection of squamous cell carcinoma.

Dermatologists in Australia are trained to identify and treat skin cancer. If you notice any changes in your skin, such as a new growth, a sore that doesn’t heal, or a change in the size, shape, or colour of a mole, it’s important to see a dermatologist for an evaluation.

Schedule a Skin Exam Today

To conclude, SCC, while common, is highly treatable when detected early. Through sun protection and regular skin checks, the risk of developing SCC can be minimised. If you spot
any unusual skin changes, seek professional advice promptly. Remember, proactive healthcare is your ally in maintaining healthy skin.

For those concerned about skin changes or the risk of skin cancer, consulting with a healthcare professional is a crucial first step. Early intervention and squamous cell carcinoma treatment can make all the difference. Stay informed, stay protected, and prioritise your skin health. Book an appointment at Pymble Dermatology for your skin check.

Melanoma, a type of skin cancer, is a serious health concern that, if detected early, can be effectively treated. In Australia, with its high rates of UV exposure, it’s crucial to understand the risks and to know how to identify potential signs of melanoma. This blog post will delve into the importance of early detection, explore various melanoma skin cancer treatment options, and emphasise the crucial role of dermatologists in managing melanoma.

Let’s explore how you can take proactive steps to protect your skin health and seek professional care for melanoma.

Why Early Detection Is Crucial

Early detection of melanoma can be lifesaving. When melanoma is caught early, the chances of successful treatment are significantly higher.

• High Cure Rates: Early-stage melanoma has a high cure rate. When detected and treated at an early stage, the five-year survival rate is about 99%.
• Simple Treatments: Early detection often means less invasive treatments, which can lead to quicker recovery times and fewer complications.
• Prevention of Spread: Catching melanoma early can prevent it from spreading to other parts of the body, where it becomes more challenging to treat.

Encouraging Regular Skin Checks

Skin checks are essential, especially for those with prolonged sun exposure or history of skin cancer.

• Monthly Self-Exams: Conduct monthly self-exams to monitor any changes in your skin. Look for new moles, changes in existing moles, or any unusual skin growths.
• Annual Dermatologist Visits: Schedule annual visits to a dermatologist for a professional skin check. Sydney-based dermatologists have the expertise to identify suspicious lesions that may not be apparent to the untrained eye.
• Immediate Attention to Changes: If you notice any changes in your skin, such as a mole that changes in size, shape, or colour, seek medical advice immediately.

Melanoma Skin Cancer Treatment Options

There are various treatment options available for melanoma, depending on the stage and location of the cancer. Dermatology clinics in Sydney offer advanced treatments tailored to individual needs. These are some of the primary treatment options:

Surgery

Surgery is often the first line of treatment for early-stage melanoma. The goal is to remove the melanoma along with some surrounding healthy tissue to ensure all cancer cells are eradicated. Types of surgery include:

• Wide Excision: This involves removing the melanoma and a margin of healthy skin around it. It’s typically performed under local anaesthesia.
• Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy: If your dermatologist suspects there is a risk that melanoma has spread to the lymph nodes, a sentinel lymph node biopsy may be performed to check for cancer cells.

Immunotherapy

This treatment boosts the immune system’s ability to combat cancer. Sydney-based dermatologists recommend it for advanced melanoma or when the cancer has spread. Types of immunotherapy include:

• Checkpoint Inhibitors: These drugs aid the immune system’s ability to recognise and attack melanoma cells. Examples of checkpoint inhibitors include pembrolizumab (Keytruda) and nivolumab (Opdivo).
• Cytokines: These are proteins that enhance the immune response. Interleukin-2 (IL-2) is an immunotherapy option to treat advanced and metastatic melanoma.

Targeted Therapy

Targeted therapy involves using drugs that specifically target melanoma cells without affecting normal cells. This approach is particularly effective for melanomas with specific genetic mutations. Types of targeted therapy include:

• BRAF Inhibitors: These drugs target the BRAF gene mutation found in about half of all melanomas. Vemurafenib (Zelboraf) and dabrafenib (Tafinlar) are common examples.
• MEK Inhibitors: Often used in combination with BRAF inhibitors, MEK inhibitors target another protein involved in melanoma growth. Examples include trametinib (Mekinist) and cobimetinib (Cotellic).

Radiation Therapy

This therapy targets cancer cells, ultimately killing them with high-energy radiation. It is often used when surgery is not an option or to relieve symptoms in advanced melanoma cases.

This melanoma skin cancer treatment option is not usually used to treat the original melanoma in the skin but can be used to relieve symptoms caused by spread of the melanoma, especially to the brain or bones. Radiation therapy may also be used to treat melanoma that has come back or to kill any cancer cells remaining after surgery.

Look Out for the Early Signs of Melanoma

It merits repeating that early detection is crucial in the successful treatment of melanoma. When caught in its early stages, melanoma is highly treatable, and the chances of a full recovery are significantly increased. Regular self-examinations and professional skin checks are essential for identifying any suspicious moles or lesions.

Here are a few important things to keep in mind:

• If one half of the mole doesn’t match the other, this may be a cause for concern and should be checked by licensed dermatologists.
• Consult with a Sydney-based dermatologist if you spot moles with ragged, notched, or blurred edges.
• Another early sign of melanoma to be wary of are moles with varying shades of brown, black, red, white, or blue.
• Inspect any mole on the skin if it is larger than 6 millimetres or about the size of a pencil eraser.
• If the mole exhibits noticeable change in size, shape or colour, let a dermatologist examine it as soon as possible.

Taking Proactive Steps

Even if you do not have visible symptoms of melanoma, take proactive steps to protect and monitor your skin health.

• Sun Protection: Australia experiences high levels of UVR, so always use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and wear protective clothing when going out. Avoid peak sun hours.
• Avoid Tanning Beds: Tanning beds can increase the risk of melanoma and should be avoided.
• Educate Yourself: Learn about the signs of melanoma and stay informed about the latest advancements in skin cancer treatment.

Turn to Dermatologists for Melanoma Treatment in Sydney

Upon diagnosis, dermatologists will recommend the suitable treatment option. Here’s why seeking professional care from these experts is beneficial:

• Advanced Technology: Sydney-based clinics are equipped with the latest technology for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
• Experienced Specialists: Dermatologists in Sydney have extensive experience in treating melanoma and are well-versed in the latest treatment protocols.
• Comprehensive Care: These clinics offer a multidisciplinary approach, involving oncologists, surgeons, and other specialists to provide comprehensive care for melanoma patients.

Schedule a Skin Check Today

Melanoma is a serious but treatable condition when detected early. By understanding the risk factors, knowing the signs of melanoma, and scheduling regular skin checks, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing this type of skin cancer.

If you notice any changes in your skin, don’t hesitate to consult one of our dermatologists here at Pymble Dermatology.