Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) of the Skin: Causes, Symptoms & Latest Treatments in Australia (2024)
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type of skin cancer in Australia, affecting thousands of people each year. While SCC is often treatable, it can be aggressive and spread to other organs if left untreated.
With Australia’s high UV exposure, understanding risk factors, early warning signs, and new treatment options is essential for reducing the impact of SCC. This page provides the latest insights on SCC prevention, detection, and medical advancements available in 2024.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Australia: Key Facts
Over 1 million non-melanoma skin cancers (including SCC) are treated in Australia annually.
SCC accounts for 30-40% of skin cancers diagnosed in the country.
More than 2,000 Australians die each year from non-melanoma skin cancers.
Sun exposure is responsible for 95% of all SCC cases.
(Source: Cancer Council Australia)
What Is Squamous Cell Carcinoma?
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is a type of skin cancer that develops in the squamous cells, which make up the outer layer of the skin (epidermis). Unlike Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), SCC is more likely to spread, especially if left untreated.
Common Locations for SCC:
✔ Face, ears, neck, and scalp
✔ Hands, forearms, and legs
✔ Lips and areas of chronic skin damage
Signs & Symptoms of SCC:
✔ Scaly, red patches that may crust or bleed
✔ Open sores or ulcers that don’t heal
✔ Firm, raised growths or nodules
✔ Rough, thickened skin in sun-exposed areas
✔ Pain, tenderness, or bleeding
🚨 If you notice any of these symptoms, consult a doctor immediately for a skin check.
Risk Factors for SCC
✔ Excessive Sun Exposure – Prolonged UV radiation increases SCC risk.
✔ Fair Skin & Light Features – Lighter skin types have less melanin protection.
✔ Age 50+ – The risk increases with age.
✔ Weakened Immune System – Organ transplant recipients & immunosuppressed patients have a higher risk.
✔ Chronic Skin Damage – SCC can develop in scars, burns, and areas of inflammation.
✔ Tanning Bed Use – Despite bans, some Australians still use illegal solariums, raising their risk.
(Source: News.com.au)
Latest Treatments for Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Australia (2024 Updates)
1. Mohs Surgery: The Gold Standard for SCC Removal
Most effective treatment for high-risk SCC.
Removes cancer layer by layer, preserving healthy skin.
Used for face, ears, hands, and other delicate areas.
(Source: Verywell Health)
2. Immunotherapy for Advanced SCC (Libtayo & Keytruda)
Cemiplimab (Libtayo) was approved in Australia for advanced or inoperable SCC.
Keytruda (Pembrolizumab) is also being tested for metastatic SCC cases.
These drugs boost the immune system to fight cancer cells.
(Source: Cancer Council Australia)
3. Radiation Therapy for Inoperable SCC
Used when surgery is not an option.
Effective for large SCC tumors or areas difficult to operate on.
4. Topical Chemotherapy for Early-Stage SCC
Fluorouracil (5-FU) and Imiquimod creams help destroy SCC cells without surgery.
Best for superficial or pre-cancerous SCCs (actinic keratoses).
5. Cryotherapy (Freezing SCC with Liquid Nitrogen)
Works for small, early-stage SCC lesions.
Non-invasive and performed in outpatient settings.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment in Australia
✅ Standard Treatments:
✔ Mohs Surgery (Best for high-risk areas)
✔ Wide Excision Surgery (For larger SCCs)
✔ Cryotherapy (For early SCCs)
✔ Topical Chemotherapy
🛑 Advanced or Metastatic SCC Treatments:
✔ Immunotherapy (Cemiplimab)
✔ Radiotherapy
✔ Clinical Trials (Emerging treatments for advanced cases)
(Source: Cancer Council Australia)
Prevention of Squamous Cell Carcinoma
✔ Wear SPF50+ sunscreen daily.
✔ Avoid tanning beds (Australia has banned solariums).
✔ Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses.
✔ Check the UV Index before outdoor activities.
✔ Get annual skin checks with a dermatologist.
✔ Monitor your skin for changes and act early.
Early Detection: How to Spot SCC Before It Spreads
✔ Sores that don’t heal after 2-3 weeks.
✔ Red, scaly patches that bleed or itch.
✔ Firm lumps that grow over time.
✔ Persistent crusting or tenderness on sun-damaged skin.
🩺 When to See a Doctor:
If you notice any skin changes that persist for more than 4 weeks.
If an existing skin lesion starts to grow, change color, or bleed.
If you have a history of previous skin cancers or sun damage.
🚨 Early treatment improves survival rates and prevents complications!
Final Thoughts: Stay Sun-Safe & Get Checked
Squamous Cell Carcinoma is a common yet preventable skin cancer. With early detection, improved treatments, and sun safety measures, Australians can reduce their risk and improve their prognosis.
✔ Protect your skin from harmful UV exposure.
✔ Check your skin regularly and consult a doctor for changes.
✔ Stay informed about new treatment options for SCC.
Need a Medical Certificate for Skin Cancer Treatment?
If you require a doctor’s note for work due to skin cancer treatment, Doctorsnote.com.au provides fast and reliable online medical certificates.
Further reading : Skin Cancer in Australia
DR. R. Singh