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Squamous Cell Cancer
External Resource: American Cancer Society - Squamous Cell Carcinoma Overview
For more in-depth information on squamous cell carcinoma, visit the American Cancer Society's comprehensive overview. This resource covers causes, prevention, diagnosis, treatment options, and support services to help patients and caregivers accurately understand and manage this common skin cancer effectively.
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Prolonged sun or UV exposure
Fair skin that burns easily
History of smoking (especially for lung cases)
Weakened immune system (illness or medications)
Age over 50
Signs and Symptoms
Red, firm bump or rough patch on the skin
Sore that doesn't heal or bleeds easily
Thick, wart-like spot
Pain or tenderness in one area
Cough or hoarseness if in throat or lungs
How Dr. Nghia Nguyen Diagnoses Squamous Cell Cancer?
Dr. Nguyen uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your personal and family history, risk factors (sun/UV exposure, smoking, immunosuppression), and asks about symptoms such as a non-healing skin sore, persistent cough, hoarseness, or epigastric discomfort. A head-to-toe exam inspects the skin, oral cavity, lymph nodes, and abdominal area.
Biopsy
A small tissue sample is taken from the suspicious lesion—whether on the skin, throat, or esophagus—and analyzed under a microscope to confirm squamous cell carcinoma.
Imaging Studies
CT scan of the chest, head/neck, or abdomen to assess local invasion and correlate with epigastric pain.
PET scan to detect distant metastases and guide staging.
Endoscopic Evaluation
Bronchoscopy for lesions in the airways or lungs.
Laryngoscopy to visualize throat or vocal cord involvement.
Upper endoscopy when epigastric pain or swallowing issues suggest esophageal involvement.
Advanced Testing (if needed)
In select cases, sentinel lymph node biopsy, molecular profiling, or specialized imaging (like MRI) helps refine staging and tailor therapy.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for squamous cell cancer.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Tips
Use sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) and wear a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors
Eat more fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins
Quit smoking—we offer counseling and support programs to help you stop
2. Medications
Topical creams for small, surface-level growths
Oral agents for advanced or deeper tumors
3. Procedures and Therapies
Mohs surgery - Precise, layer-by-layer removal to spare healthy tissue
Cryotherapy - Freezes and destroys small tumors
Radiation therapy - Targets hard-to-reach or deeper lesions
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) - Uses light-activated drugs to kill cancer cells
Dr. Nghia Nguyen, DO, is a board-certified gastroenterologist providing advanced digestive care in the Greater Houston area. He earned his medical degree from the Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine and completed both his Internal Medicine residency and Gastroenterology fellowship at the University of Texas at Rio Grande Valley. Dr. Nguyen specializes in treating conditions such as acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and liver disorders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between basal cell and squamous cell cancer?
Basal cell cancer grows slowly and almost never spreads. Squamous cell cancer grows more quickly and can spread to other organs if left untreated.
Can squamous cell cancer come back after treatment?
Yes. Follow-up visits and regular skin checks help catch any recurrence early, when it's most treatable.
How serious is stage 4 squamous cell cancer?
Stage 4 means the cancer has spread beyond its origin. Dr. Nguyen uses advanced imaging and targeted therapies to manage and control metastatic disease.
Are there non-surgical options for small tumors?
Yes. Early, superficial growths can often be treated with topical creams, cryotherapy (freezing), or photodynamic therapy (PDT) instead of surgery.
How often should I check my skin for signs of cancer?
Perform a full skin self-examination once a month. Schedule a professional skin check with Dr. Nguyen at least once a year, or more often if you have higher risk factors.
Can squamous cell cancer develop inside the body?
Absolutely. Squamous cell tumors can form in internal sites lined by squamous cells, such as the lungs, throat, esophagus, and other parts of the digestive tract.
Do you collaborate with other specialists in Houston?
Yes. Dr. Nguyen works closely with dermatologists, oncologists, radiologists, and other experts to create a comprehensive, team-based care plan tailored to your needs.
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