Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment in Northbrook & Hinsdale | Illinois Dermatology Institute

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common type of skin cancer that develops in the squamous cells of the skin’s outer layer. It is primarily associated with cumulative ultraviolet (UV) exposure and commonly appears on sun-exposed areas of the body.

At Illinois Dermatology Institute, our board-certified dermatologists provide comprehensive squamous cell carcinoma diagnosis and treatment in Northbrook, Hinsdale, and surrounding areas.

What Is Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

Squamous cell carcinoma is a form of skin cancer that develops when abnormal squamous cells grow uncontrollably. SCC may grow deeper into the skin and surrounding tissue if left untreated, making early diagnosis and treatment important.

Although SCC most often develops on sun-exposed skin, it can also occur in other areas of the body.

What Causes Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

Squamous cell carcinoma is most commonly caused by long-term ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure that damages skin cells over time.

Common risk factors include:

• Chronic sun exposure
• Indoor tanning bed use
• Weakened immune system
• History of precancerous lesions
• Personal history of skin cancer

Reducing UV exposure and scheduling routine skin exams may help support early detection.

Signs & Symptoms of Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma may appear as:

• A rough or scaly patch
• A crusted or thickened lesion
• A wart-like growth
• A raised bump with central depression
• A lesion that bleeds or becomes tender

Some SCC lesions may grow gradually, while others may become painful or rapidly enlarge over time.

Types of Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Our dermatologists diagnose and treat several forms of squamous cell carcinoma and precancerous skin lesions.

• Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma: The most common form of SCC, cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma develops on the skin and is often associated with cumulative sun damage. It commonly appears as a scaly, crusted, or thickened lesion.
• Squamous Cell Carcinoma In Situ: Also called Bowen’s disease, SCC in situ is an early form of squamous cell carcinoma confined to the upper layer of the skin. Early treatment may help prevent progression into deeper tissue.
• Keratoacanthoma-Type SCC: This rapidly growing subtype may resemble a dome-shaped bump with a central keratin plug. Although it may appear less aggressive, evaluation and treatment are still important.
• Actinic Keratosis: Actinic keratoses are precancerous lesions caused by chronic sun exposure and may progress to squamous cell carcinoma if untreated.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment Options

Treatment for squamous cell carcinoma depends on the depth, size, location, and aggressiveness of the lesion. Early diagnosis is important because some SCC lesions may grow deeper or spread if untreated.

Diagnostic Evaluation

• Full-Body Skin Exams
  Comprehensive skin evaluations help identify suspicious lesions, actinic keratoses, and early signs of SCC.
• Skin Biopsies
  Biopsies help confirm the diagnosis and determine lesion depth and subtype.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatments

• Surgical Excision
  SCC lesions are commonly removed surgically along with surrounding tissue margins.
• Mohs Surgery Referrals
  Mohs surgery may be recommended for high-risk, facial, recurrent, or larger squamous cell carcinomas.
• Curettage & Electrodessication
  Certain superficial SCC lesions may be treated using scraping and controlled electrical destruction.
• Lymph Node Evaluation Referrals
  Advanced or high-risk SCC cases may require additional evaluation if there is concern for deeper spread.

Related Services:

Mohs surgery
Excision and Repair

What Is the Most Effective Treatment for Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

The most effective squamous cell carcinoma treatment depends on the size, location, and stage of the lesion. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to help reduce tissue damage and improve treatment outcomes. Many cases can be successfully treated when detected early.

When Should You See a Dermatologist for Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

You should schedule a dermatology evaluation if you notice:

• A persistent rough or scaly patch
• A crusted or bleeding skin lesion
• A rapidly growing bump
• A painful or tender skin growth

Routine skin exams are especially important for individuals with significant sun exposure or a history of skin cancer.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment in Northbrook & Hinsdale

Illinois Dermatology Institute provides squamous cell carcinoma screening and treatment at multiple convenient locations, including:

• Northbrook
• Hinsdale

Our dermatology team offers comprehensive skin cancer care focused on early detection, diagnosis, and personalized treatment planning.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma Specialists

Our board-certified dermatologists diagnose and treat squamous cell carcinoma using personalized treatment approaches focused on early intervention, lesion management, and ongoing skin cancer surveillance.

Book a Squamous Cell Carcinoma Consultation

If you notice a persistent skin lesion, non-healing sore, or signs of skin cancer, our dermatology team can help.

Schedule a squamous cell carcinoma consultation at Illinois Dermatology Institute for comprehensive skin evaluation and treatment options.