Effective Treatment Options for Squamous Cell Carcinoma: What You Need to Know

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 Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment in Woodstock IL Area
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is best described as a type of skin cancer that forms in the squamous cells, the flat and thin cells found on the skin's surface. While it is usually not life-threatening, SCC can be dangerous if left untreated and has the potential to spread to other parts of the body. Fortunately, there are several effective treatments available for SCC that can help manage or eliminate the cancer. At Dermatology Specialists of Illinois in the Woodstock, Illinois, area, our team of providers can get you not only a proper diagnosis of your condition but also talk to you about the five common treatments for this particular type of skin cancer to improve your chances of remission.

Mohs micrographic surgery

Mohs surgery is considered the best and most effective treatment for SCC, with a cure rate of up to 99%. This procedure involves the meticulous removal of cancerous tissue layer by layer. Each layer is examined under a microscope to ensure that all cancer cells have been eliminated. It is often recommended for larger or recurring SCC tumors, as it allows for the precise removal of cancer while minimizing damage to healthy tissue.

Excisional surgery

This specific type of surgery involves removing the entire tumor along with a slim margin of healthy skin around it. It is typically used for smaller SCC tumors that have not spread to other parts of the body. While this procedure may leave a scar, it has a high success rate and can effectively remove the cancer in one treatment.

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Radiation therapy

In some situations, our radiation therapy may be used as a primary treatment for SCC or in combination with surgery. This involves using high-energy beams to target and destroy cancer cells. It is often recommended for patients who are not good candidates for surgery or have tumors in hard-to-reach areas.

Topical chemotherapy

This treatment involves applying a topical cream or lotion containing chemotherapy medication directly to the affected area. It is typically used for early-stage SCC and has a high success rate but may cause skin irritation.

Photodynamic therapy (PDT)

PDT utilizes a combination of both a photosensitizing agent and light to selectively destroy cancer cells. It is often used for superficial SCC lesions on the face or scalp and has a high success rate with minimal scarring.

Who can I contact to find a Mohs dermatologist near Woodstock, Illinois?

At Dermatology Specialists of Illinois, we offer all these treatments for squamous cell carcinoma and other options, such as cryotherapy and laser therapy. Our experienced team will work with you to determine the best course of treatment based on your unique situation. If you are a resident of the Woodstock, Illinois, area, we invite you to call (844) 307-7546 to request a visit to our practice. We also have other office locations in the cities of Algonquin, Lake Barrington, and Huntley, Illinois.

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