Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment in Faridabad: Expert Care & Treatment Options
If you have noticed a skin growth that keeps bleeding, a sore that does not heal, or a rough patch that seems to be changing, it is natural to feel concerned. While many skin changes are harmless, some may be signs of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), a common type of skin cancer that should not be ignored.
The good news is that many cases of skin squamous cell carcinoma can be treated effectively, particularly when they are detected early. Treatment depends on several factors, including the tumour’s size, location, depth, risk factors, and whether it has spread to other parts of the body.
Surgery is commonly used to remove SCC, while radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and other treatments may be considered in specific situations.
For people looking for squamous cell carcinoma treatment in Faridabad, consulting an experienced surgical oncologist can help you understand the diagnosis and explore appropriate treatment options.
What Is Squamous Cell Carcinoma?
Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer that develops from squamous cells, the flat cells that form much of the outer layer of the skin.
SCC commonly develops on areas of the body that receive significant sun exposure, such as:
- Face
- Ears
- Scalp
- Neck
- Hands
- Arms
However, it can develop on other parts of the body as well.
What Does Squamous Cell Carcinoma Look Like?
SCC does not always have the same appearance. It may appear as:
- A rough, scaly, or crusty patch
- A firm red or skin-coloured lump
- A sore that repeatedly heals and returns
- A growth that bleeds easily
- A wart-like growth
- A wound that does not heal normally
- A skin lesion that changes rapidly
Not every unusual skin change is cancer. However, a persistent or changing lesion should be evaluated by a dermatologist or cancer specialist.
Why Does Squamous Cell Carcinoma Happen?
Long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation is one of the major risk factors for skin SCC. Other factors may also increase the risk, including previous radiation exposure, a weakened immune system, certain long-term skin conditions, and previous skin cancers.
Think of the skin as a protective shield. Over many years, UV exposure can damage the DNA inside skin cells. In some cases, these damaged cells may begin growing and multiplying abnormally, eventually leading to cancer.
Having a risk factor does not mean that a person will definitely develop SCC. Similarly, people without obvious risk factors can also develop the disease.
How Is Squamous Cell Carcinoma Diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually begins with a careful examination of the suspicious area and a review of the patient’s medical history.
If the lesion appears concerning, a skin biopsy is generally needed to confirm whether SCC is present.
Once SCC has been diagnosed, the doctor may assess factors such as:
- Tumour size
- Location of the tumour
- Depth of the cancer
- Appearance of the cancer cells under a microscope
- Whether the cancer has been completely removed
- Whether the cancer has returned after previous treatment
- Whether nearby lymph nodes are involved
- The patient’s overall health and immune status
For higher-risk cancers, additional imaging or other investigations may be recommended depending on the individual case.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment Options
There is no single treatment that is suitable for every patient. The treatment plan is usually based on the tumour’s characteristics, location, risk level, and the patient’s overall health.
1. Surgical Removal
Surgical excision is a commonly used treatment for squamous cell carcinoma of the skin.
During the procedure, the surgeon removes the tumour along with a margin of surrounding tissue. The removed tissue is then examined to determine whether the cancer has been completely removed.
Small wounds may often be closed directly. Depending on the size and location of the tumour, larger wounds may require a skin flap or skin graft for reconstruction.
2. Mohs Surgery
Mohs micrographic surgery removes the tumour layer by layer while each layer is examined to identify cancer cells.
This technique may be particularly useful for selected high-risk SCCs, recurrent cancers, or tumours located in areas where preserving healthy tissue is important.
These areas may include parts of the:
- Face
- Ears
- Fingers
- Area around the eyes
The goal is to remove the cancer while preserving as much healthy surrounding tissue as possible.
3. Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to destroy cancer cells.
It may be considered in situations where:
- Surgery is difficult
- Surgery is not possible
- There is a significant risk of recurrence
- Cancer has involved nearby lymph nodes
- The cancer has spread to other areas
The number and schedule of radiation sessions depend on why radiation is being used and the individual treatment plan.
4. Other Local Treatments
Certain low-risk or very early skin lesions may sometimes be treated with local approaches such as:
- Curettage and cautery
- Cryotherapy
- Certain topical medications
These treatments are not appropriate for every SCC. The choice depends on the tumour’s type, depth, size, location, and overall risk.
5. Treatment for Advanced Squamous Cell Carcinoma
When SCC has spread to nearby lymph nodes or distant parts of the body, treatment may become more complex.
Depending on the situation, doctors may consider:
- Surgery
- Radiation therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Other systemic treatments
Advanced cases are often managed by a multidisciplinary cancer team, which may include surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, dermatologists, pathologists, and other specialists.
How Do Doctors Decide Which Treatment You Need?
A common question patients ask is:
“Can I just have the lump removed?”
Sometimes, surgery may be all that is required. However, the location, size, depth, microscopic features, and other characteristics of the cancer may mean that additional treatment or closer follow-up is necessary.
During your consultation, you may want to ask:
- Is my SCC considered low-risk or high-risk?
- Has the cancer been completely removed?
- Are the surgical margins clear?
- Do I need additional treatment?
- Do my lymph nodes need to be evaluated?
- What type of follow-up will I need?
- What should I watch for after treatment?
The goal of treatment is not simply to remove something visible on the skin. It is to control the cancer while also considering healing, function, appearance, overall health, and long-term monitoring.
Meet the Specialist: Dr. Shivam Vatsal Agarwal
For individuals looking for squamous cell carcinoma treatment in Faridabad, Dr. Shivam Vatsal Agarwal is an oncologist at Metro Cancer Institute, Faridabad.
According to Metro Hospitals, Dr. Agarwal is the Director and Head of Surgical Oncology and Robotic Surgery (Unit-II). His qualifications include MBBS, MS, and a Fellowship in Laparoscopic and Robotic Oncology.
He received oncology training at Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Institute–Rotary Cancer Hospital, AIIMS, New Delhi.
His areas of expertise include:
- Head and neck cancer
- Breast cancer
- Gastrointestinal cancers
- Lung cancer
- Surgical oncology procedures
- Laparoscopic and robotic oncology
For patients diagnosed with skin cancer, consultation with a surgical oncology specialist can help explain the diagnosis, treatment possibilities, surgical options, and the next steps in cancer care.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment Journey
Every patient’s treatment journey is different, but it may generally involve the following steps:
1. Consultation
The suspicious skin lesion and your medical history are evaluated.
2. Diagnosis
A biopsy or other investigations may be performed to confirm SCC.
3. Risk Assessment
The tumour’s size, location, depth, microscopic features, and other risk factors are assessed.
4. Treatment Planning
Depending on the case, surgery, Mohs surgery, radiation therapy, local treatment, or systemic treatment may be discussed.
5. Treatment
The selected treatment is performed according to the patient’s individual treatment plan.
6. Pathology Review
If tissue is removed, it is examined to determine the characteristics of the tumour and whether the cancer has been completely removed.
7. Follow-Up
Regular follow-up appointments help monitor healing, detect recurrence, and identify any new skin cancers at an early stage.
Frequently Asked Questions About Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment
Can squamous cell carcinoma be cured?
Many squamous cell carcinomas of the skin can be treated successfully, especially when they are detected early. Outcomes depend on factors such as the tumour’s risk level, location, depth, and whether it has spread.
What is the best treatment for squamous cell carcinoma?
There is no single treatment that is best for every patient. Surgery is commonly used, while Mohs surgery, radiation therapy, local treatments, immunotherapy, or other medicines may be considered depending on the specific situation.
Does squamous cell carcinoma require surgery?
Many skin SCCs are treated surgically, but not every patient requires the same type of surgery. Treatment depends on the tumour’s size, location, risk factors, and other individual considerations.
Can squamous cell carcinoma spread?
Yes. Although many skin SCCs are successfully treated, some can spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body. The risk varies depending on the characteristics of the tumour.
How long does SCC treatment take?
Treatment duration varies. A small, straightforward lesion may require only one procedure, while more complex cases involving radiation therapy or additional treatment may take several weeks or longer.
What should I do if a skin sore does not heal?
A skin sore that does not heal should be evaluated by a healthcare professional rather than repeatedly treating it at home. A non-healing wound does not necessarily mean cancer, but an examination and biopsy, when appropriate, can help determine the cause.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment in Faridabad
If you have noticed a persistent skin growth, a wound that does not heal, a changing skin lesion, or have already been diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma, seeking professional medical evaluation can help you understand your condition and treatment options.
Dr. Shivam Vatsal Agarwal
Metro Cancer Institute Hospital
Ground Floor, Metro Cancer Institute Hospital
Nirman Kunj, ADB PWD Colony, Sector 16A
Faridabad, Haryana – 121002
Phone: 099688 56411
