Squamous cell cancer is cancer that develops from squamous cells, which make up the tissue on our skin, in the respiratory tracts, and in certain portions of the digestive system. They also line other organs such as the bladder, kidneys, and male and female reproductive tracts.

When cancer develops in this type of cell, it is called squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), or squamous cell cancer. 

Types of Squamous Cell Carcinoma

SCC can develop in multiple areas, including:

  • Head and neckSkinEsophagusLungsMale and female genitals

Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC)

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) develops in the mucous membranes of the mouth, nose, and throat.

HNSCC is classified by its location:

  • Oral cavity: When it occurs in the mouthOropharynx: When it occurs in the middle part of the throat near the mouthNasal cavity and paranasal sinuses: When it occurs in the space behind the noseNasopharynx: When it occurs in the upper part of the throat near the nasal cavityLarynx: When it occurs in the voiceboxHypopharynx: When it occurs in the lower part of the throat near the larynx

Skin Squamous Cell Carcinoma

SCC of the skin typically develops on sun-exposed areas, such as the:

  • FaceArmsHands

Esophagus Squamous Cell Carcinoma

SCC is one of the types of cancer that can develop in the esophagus, the tube that moves food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach.

SCC in the esophagus is typically in the upper to the middle part of the esophagus.

Lung Squamous Cell Carcinoma

SCC of the lung is often found in the area in the center of the chest, close to the bronchus, the large airway that brings air into the lungs.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Reproductive Organs

SCC can affect both the vagina and the penis:

  • Cancer may develop in the vagina, usually close to the cervix, and is generally a slow-growing cancer.Cancer may develop anywhere on the penis. It’s most likely to develop in the area of the foreskin.

Symptoms

The symptoms experienced with SCC are different depending upon where the cancer is located.

Symptoms of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC)

Depending on the location, HNSCC can cause:

  • Abnormal patches or open sores (ulcers) in the mouth and throatUnusual bleeding or pain in the mouthSinus congestion that does not clearSore throatEarachePain when swallowing, or difficulty swallowingA hoarse voiceDifficulty breathingEnlarged lymph nodes

Symptoms of Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Skin

Symptoms of SCC of the skin may include:

  • Scaly, rough patchesNon-healing sores (ulcers)Patches with irregular bordersBrown spotsWart-like growths on the skin

Symptoms of Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Esophagus

Symptoms of SCC of the esophagus may include:

  • Difficulty swallowingPain with swallowingChest painCoughHeartburnHoarse voiceWeight loss

Symptoms of Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Lung

Symptoms of SCC of the lung may include:

  • Persistent coughCoughing up bloodDifficulty breathingChest painWeight lossFatigue

Symptoms of Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Reproductive Organs

SCC of the vagina may exhibit the following symptoms:

  • Abnormal vaginal bleeding or dischargePain with urinationPain in the pelvisPain during intercoursePersistent low back pain

SCC of the penis may have symptoms of:

  • A sore on the penisSkin thickeningPain in the penisSwelling or bumps under the skin of the penisPenile discharge or bleeding

Causes 

There is no one specific known cause for cancer, as cancer develops due to abnormal DNA in a cell. However, some known risk factors may lead to the development of cancer. These include:

  • Tobacco useBeing overweightAlcohol useUV radiation from the sunRadon exposureHPV virus

Diagnosis

Cancer is often diagnosed while looking for the cause of a person’s symptoms. Imaging, such as X-ray, CT scan, MRI, or PET scan, may be done. When abnormal areas are found on imaging, a biopsy is then ordered.

Can a Virus Cause Cancer?

Both DNA and RNA viruses have been shown to be capable of causing cancer in humans. This includes:

  • Epstein-Barr virus
  • Human papilloma virus
  • Hepatitis B virus
  • Human herpes virus-8

During a biopsy, tissue is taken from the abnormal area and sent to a laboratory for testing. The testing will determine if the tissue is cancerous.

Treatment

There are many ways to treat SCC, and the treatment is chosen based on where the cancer is located. Treatment may consist of:

  • SurgeryRadiationChemotherapyImmunotherapyTargeted therapyCombination of the above

Prognosis

Some people who are diagnosed with SCC will be able to be cured of their disease, while some will not be. The average 5-year survival rates below are offered as information but should not be used as a prognosis, as survival rates vary based on many factors.

A Word From Verywell

If you have symptoms that are concerning for cancer, it is normal to feel anxious until a cause of the symptoms is known. It is important to notify your healthcare provider about your symptoms, as outcomes for cancer are generally better if caught early.

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By Julie Scott, MSN, ANP-BC, AOCNP

Julie is an Adult Nurse Practitioner with oncology certification and a healthcare freelance writer with an interest in educating patients and the healthcare community.