Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Jed Dietrich, Esq. Is Regarded to be a Best Lawyer of America, and With Over Twenty Years of Experience is Prepared to Represent Individuals Who Have Experienced Personal Injuries Throughout New York State and Beyond.

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In the United States alone, over 1 million individuals are diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma every year. Although a type of skin cancer, squamous cell carcinoma is deadlier than melanoma skin cancer, with 15,000 fatalities annually. As the second most common form of skin cancer, it is good to become familiar with the warning signs and prevention methods currently known for squamous cell carcinoma.

Jed Dietrich, Esq. recognizes that a cancer diagnosis is a life-changing event. For over twenty years, he has represented countless clients in personal injury cases and is more than capable of representing you and your loved ones. Call us today at 716-839-3939 or visit us online to schedule your free consultation. Remember, you will never be charged until we secure a win for you.

What Is Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

It may be surprising to learn, but the skin is actually an organ. One of the seventy-eight organs in the human body, the skin consists of three layers known as the epidermis, the dermis, and the hypodermis. The epidermis, or outermost layer of skin, is comprised of multiple layers of cells, all of which perform different functions for the healing and protection of the body. The main three types of cell are:

1. Melanocytes: These cells produce melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color and allows it to tan. The darkening of the skin in response to sun exposure is a form of protection against ultraviolet radiation;
2. Basal Cells: Originating in the base level of the epidermis, basal cells move through the dermis and turn into new squamous cells to replace old ones as they die; and
3. Squamous Cells: Also known as keratinocytes, these grow on the topmost layer of the epidermis and produce the protein that makes new skin, nail, and hair follicles. Cases of squamous cell carcinoma can occur when keratinocyte cells mutate, typically as a result of damage from sun exposure.

Early Warning Signs And Treatment

Squamous cell carcinoma results from exposure to ultraviolet rays. As such, it is commonly found on the parts of the body that are most often in the sun: the face, ears, neck, hands, and feet. However, squamous cell carcinoma has been known to occur in other parts of the body, even around the genitals. Indications of the presence of cancer on the skin include rough-looking patches, often red in color, which can become crusted over or bleed. Bumps, sores that fail to completely heal, and black or brown growths that resemble warts are also common indications of squamous cell carcinomas. Because squamous cell carcinomas originate on the topmost layer of the skin, they can typically be noticed and removed quickly. However, if left untreated, this type of cancer can easily spread to other parts of the body and cause other cancers to develop. For example, squamous cell carcinoma is one of the most common types of cervical cancer and one of the most common types of throat cancer.

As with all types of cancer, the treatment methods depend entirely on the stage and location of the cancer and the overall health of the patient. If it is caught at an early stage, squamous cell carcinoma can be removed through surgery. Radiation is used, occasionally in conjunction with surgery, and particularly if the cancer is in a location that is difficult to perform surgery on, such as the eyelids. More serious cases of squamous cell carcinoma require more aggressive treatment, such as the removal of the lymph nodes, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy drugs. Until a medical professional has evaluated the severity of the cancer, there is no way to be certain which treatment method is best suited to a patient.

For over twenty years, Jed Dietrich, Esq. has successfully represented individuals in personal injury cases throughout the Western New York area. Today, he is regarded to be a Best Lawyer of America and has obtained at least $1,000,000 or more 44 times to compensate his clients for their injuries. To receive your free consultation, call us now at 716-839-3939 or contact us online. Our team is available 24 hours per day and 7 days per week.

Prevention Methods

For some individuals, there are genetic factors that can increase their chances of developing squamous cell carcinoma or other types of skin cancer. Possessing lighter skin, which naturally contains less of the protective pigment melanin, is one risk factor. Gender and age also play a role, as more cases have been found among men and among the middle-aged to elderly. A history of skin cancer also increases the chances that an individual will develop further skin cancer. Despite these risk factors, there are steps all individuals can take to protect their skin from squamous cell carcinoma. These steps are as follows:

1. Avoid Sun Exposure: Being careful of the amount of time spent in the sun is one way to lower the chances of developing squamous cell carcinoma. Look for sources of shade, wear protective coverings in the form of hats and sunglasses, and be careful to apply sunscreen;
2. Stay Away from Tanning Salons: The ultraviolet radiation from tanning beds can damage the skin just as much as sunlight; and
3. Check Your Skin: Watch your skin for new bumps or discolorations. Visiting a dermatologist once a year to check your body for suspicious marks or spots is a good idea.

Cancer is more likely to develop in individuals who have a weakened immune system. For example, people who have been diagnosed with HIV, or those actively undergoing chemotherapy, should be extra vigilant in observing the prevention methods mentioned above so as to lower their risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma and further endangering their health. A squamous cell carcinoma diagnosis can be a life-changing event. At the Dietrich Law Firm, P.C., our team of dedicated and hardworking attorneys is ready to represent you in your case today. Call our offices at 716-839-3939 or contact us online to receive a free consultation – our clients are never charged until we have obtained a win on their behalf.

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Call the Dietrich Law Firm P.C. immediately at 716-839-3939 so that our aggressive, tenacious and hardworking personal injury lawyers can fight to obtain the best result for your personal injury claim in Buffalo, New York. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and there is never a fee until we WIN for you!

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