Squamous cell cancer (also called squamous cell carcinoma) is a type of cancer that begins in flat cells found on the skin’s surface and in the lining of organs. It can develop in sun-exposed skin, lungs (as a squamous cell lung cancer), throat, esophagus, or cervix. Unlike basal cell cancer, squamous cell can grow deeper and may spread to lymph nodes or other organs.
Symptoms depend on where the cancer arises. Be alert for:
Risk factors that increase your chance of squamous cell cancer include:
At GastroDoxs in Houston, our dedicated team offers comprehensive, patient-focused treatment for squamous cell cancers of the skin, lungs, throat, and other organs. From advanced surgical techniques like Mohs micrographic surgery to the latest in radiation, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, we tailor every plan to your unique needs. Don't wait-early intervention improves outcomes. Book your consultation today by calling our office or using our online appointment form, and take the first step toward specialized cancer care close to home.
We've successfully treated more than 1K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Squamous cell cancer is a type of carcinoma that begins in the flat, thin cells lining the skin’s surface or the lining of certain organs, such as the lungs, throat, esophagus, or cervix.
Stage 1 squamous cell cancer is diagnosed through a biopsy to examine tissue under a microscope, along with imaging studies (like CT or MRI scans) to assess size and depth of the tumor.
Basal cell carcinoma grows very slowly and rarely spreads beyond its original site. Squamous cell carcinoma tends to grow more quickly, can invade deeper tissues, and has a higher risk of spreading to lymph nodes or other organs.
For lung squamous cell cancer, treatment options include surgical resection, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted drug therapy against specific cancer markers, and immunotherapy for advanced cases.
Squamous cell skin cancer is most often treated with surgical removal—either standard excision or Mohs micrographic surgery. In some cases, radiation therapy or topical chemotherapeutic agents may be used.
If you notice any non-healing wounds, new or changing skin lesions, persistent cough, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, unusual bleeding, or any other unexplained symptoms, you should seek evaluation by a specialist as soon as possible.
Yes. Certain strains of human papillomavirus (HPV) are strongly linked to squamous cell carcinomas of the cervix, throat (oropharynx), anus, and other mucosal sites.
Without treatment, squamous cell cancer can grow deeper into surrounding tissues, invade lymph nodes, and potentially spread (metastasize) to distant organs, making it more difficult to control.
Yes. Immunotherapy is often used for advanced or recurrent squamous cell carcinomas, especially in lung and head-and-neck cancers, to help the immune system recognize and attack cancer cells.
You can schedule your consultation by calling our Houston office directly or by using the online booking form available on the GastroDoxs website.
