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Squamous Cell Cancer
At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott specializes in early detection and personalized care for squamous cell cancer (SCC). Whether it affects the skin, lungs, or esophagus, his team provides fast diagnosis, tailored treatment options, and compassionate support for every patient.
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Smoking and alcohol use
Long-term acid reflux
Radiation or chemical exposure
Excessive sun exposure (for skin SCC)
Age over 50
Family history of squamous cell cancer
Signs and Symptoms
Trouble swallowing
Pain when eating
Persistent hoarseness or coughing
A sore or lump on the skin that won't heal
Unexplained weight loss or poor appetite
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses Squamous Cell Cancer?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Physical Exam
He reviews your symptoms-trouble swallowing, pain with eating, chronic cough or hoarseness-and evaluates key risk factors such as smoking, alcohol use, long-term acid reflux, and prior radiation exposure.
Imaging Studies
CT scan or PET/CT to locate tumors, assess lymph node involvement, and check for distant spread.
MRI for high-resolution evaluation of soft tissue structures when needed.
Endoscopic Evaluation and Biopsy
Upper endoscopy (for esophageal lesions) or bronchoscopy (for lung lesions) to directly visualize suspicious areas.
Targeted tissue sampling confirms squamous cell carcinoma, determines grade, and helps stage the disease.
Additional Diagnostic Tools (if needed)
Ultrasound of the neck to assess lymph nodes, barium swallow studies for structural evaluation, or molecular profiling of tumor tissue to guide targeted therapy.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for squamous cell cancer.
1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications
Choose soft foods and eat small, frequent meals to ease swallowing
Stay hydrated by sipping fluids between bites
Stop using tobacco and alcohol to reduce further irritation
Focus on a nutrient‐rich diet with fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins
2. Medications
Targeted therapies designed to block specific cancer cell pathways
Immunotherapy to boost your immune system's ability to fight tumors
Supportive drugs for pain relief, acid reflux control, or nausea management
3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures
Endoscopic Mucosal Resection (EMR) to remove small, early-stage tumors
Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) to destroy precancerous or cancerous cells
Combined chemotherapy and radiation therapy for more advanced cases
Surgical resection for larger or deeper tumors when indicated
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can stage 4 squamous cell cancer be treated?
Yes. Even advanced SCC can respond to combined therapies-chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy or targeted drugs-to control growth and improve quality of life. Dr. Scott will tailor your plan.
What's the difference between lung and esophageal SCC?
Lung SCC affects the airways and breathing, while esophageal SCC impacts swallowing and digestion. Each requires different imaging, endoscopic evaluation, and treatment approaches.
When should I see a doctor for swallowing trouble?
Any persistent difficulty swallowing, pain with eating, or unexplained weight loss warrants prompt evaluation. Early endoscopy can catch SCC at a more treatable stage.
Do I need a referral to see Dr. Scott?
No. We accept both direct appointments and physician referrals. Simply call our Houston office to schedule an initial consultation.
Are EMR and RFA safe for treating SCC?
Yes. Endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) are minimally invasive, low-risk procedures with shorter recovery times compared to open surgery.
What other treatments might I need?
Depending on tumor size and spread, you may also receive chemotherapy, radiation, targeted therapy or immunotherapy. Dr. Scott will recommend the optimal combination based on your stage and health.
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