Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment in India
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What is Squamous Cell Carcinoma?
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) or cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) is the second most frequent type of skin cancer, following basal cell carcinoma. It begins in squamous cells in your outer layer of skin, the epidermis. Squamous cell carcinomas typically develop on sun-exposed skin parts, such as your head, arms and legs. Cancer can also develop in the parts of your body where you have mucous membranes, that is, the inner lining of your organs and body cavities such as in your mouth, lungs and anus.
Types of Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Depending on the location and extent of the cancer in your body, there are various forms of squamous cell carcinoma:
- Cutaneous: Cancer that simply affects your skin's outermost layer (in situ) or has spread to other body parts.
- Metastatic cancer is cancer that has spread to areas of the body other than the skin.
What is the Importance of Timely Treatment?
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) should be treated early to enhance cure rates, reduce complications, and prevent the cancer from spreading. Early detection allows for more effective therapy, often resulting in less invasive procedures and a better quality of life for the patient. Delaying treatment can cause more aggressive, costly, and less likely to heal cancer.
What are the Common Symptoms of Squamous Cell Carcinoma?
Depending on the location of the cancer, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) symptoms may differ, but they generally include:
Skin Lesions: A flat, scaly, crusted lesion or a firm, red nodule often seen on sun-shaded areas like the hands, face, ears, or neck.
Bleeding or Ulceration: Bleeding, ulceration, or an unhealing scab is caused by the tumour.
Pain or Tenderness: The affected region becomes painful or tender upon palpation.
Itching or Burning: Itching or burning can be associated with the lesion.
Lumps or Swelling: Lumps can occur in the neck or nearby regions if SCC invades lymph nodes.
Causes and Risk Factors of Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Causes
Squamous cell carcinoma is due to a mutation of the p53 gene. Ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun or indoor tanning beds is the most common cause of mutations of the p53 gene.
Risk Factors
- Age
- Weakened Immune System
- Smoking
- Fair Skin
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection
- Chronic Skin Conditions
- Exposure to Chemicals
- History of Skin Cancer
- Radiation Exposure
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Latest Research and Technologies in the Treatment of Squamous Cell Carcinoma in India
According to the research, Immunotherapy with checkpoint inhibitors, which enhance the immune system's ability to recognise cancer cells, is among the key developments in treating Indian squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). EGFR inhibitors and other targeted therapies against specific genetic mutations are under investigation.
Due to the availability of advanced radiation modalities, non-surgical options exist for early-stage SCC. Scientists are also investigating the application of nanotechnology to deliver chemotherapy directly to tumours, making it more effective and reducing its side effects. These advancements are improving the outcomes of SCC patients in India.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma Prevention Tips
There are a few tips to prevent squamous cell carcinoma, including:
- Wear protective clothing such as long sleeves, caps, and sunglasses to protect the skin from the sun.
- Avoid tanning beds since they expose the skin to dangerous UV rays.
- Visit a dermatologist for a professional skin checkup and conduct routine skin checks.
- Quit smoking since it raises the risk of SCC, especially in the lungs, throat, and mouth.
- Vaccinate yourself against the human papillomavirus (HPV), which has been connected to genital SCC.
- Avoid exposing your skin to chemicals like arsenic, which might increase your chance of developing SCC.
Treatment options for Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Chemotherapy: kills cancer cells by using potent medications. Chemotherapy can be used either alone or in conjunction with other therapies, such as radiation therapy and targeted therapy, if squamous cell carcinoma spreads to the lymph nodes or other areas of the body.
Cost Start From USD 600 - USD 700Explore Options
Targeted therapy: Drugs that target particular molecules in cancer cells are used in targeted therapy. Targeted therapies can kill cancer cells by preventing these molecules from functioning. Chemotherapy is typically combined with targeted therapy.
Cost Start From USD 8000 - USD 12000Explore Options
Immunotherapy: It is a treatment that assists the body's immune system in destroying cancerous cells. The immune system targets bacteria and other cells that shouldn't be in the body to fight against illnesses. To survive, cancer cells hide themselves from the immune system. Immunotherapy aids the cells of the immune system in locating and eliminating cancer cells.
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Cryosurgery: The process of freezing cancer cells to kill them.
Photodynamic treatment (PDT): Using light-sensitive chemicals and blue light to eradicate skin cancer.
Curettage and electrodesiccation include using a spoon-like tool (curette) to scrape off the malignant lump and then using an electric needle to burn the region.
Excision is the process of removing the cancer from your skin and then stitching it back together.
Mohs surgery: Usually performed for face malignancies, this procedure involves removing cancerous skin layers.
Physicalexamination: Besides asking about your medical history, a healthcare team member will examine your skin for signs of squamous cell carcinoma.
A biopsy is the process of taking a sample of tissue for analysis. The method of taking a tissue sample for laboratory examination is called a biopsy. Using a tool, a member of your healthcare team will cut, shave, or punch off part or all of the skin that appears abnormal. It is examined in a lab to determine whether the sample is cancerous.
MediRehab (chain of Rehab centres - Part of MediGence) provides comprehensive rehabilitation services designed to support Glioma patients in India. These services include:
Physical Therapy: Physical therapy may be used to regain strength and mobility if it is damaged by radiation or surgery, particularly after head, neck, or limb surgery.
Speech and Swallowing Therapy: If SCC treatment affects the mouth, throat, or neck, speech or swallowing therapy can restore normal function.
- Depending on the situation, your healthcare professional may prescribe medicine to help control your symptoms and support the treatment plan.
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Hospitals for Squamous Cell Carcinoma in India
Max Smart Super Speciality Hospital
Delhi, India
- Max Smart Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, New Delhi, is a 250-bed tertiary care hospital known for advanced medical technology and patient-centred care.
- The hospital offers services across 22+ specialities, including Cardiac Sciences, Orthopaedics, Urology, Neurology, Neurosurgery, Paediatrics, Obstetrics, and Gynaecology.
- It is a regional hub for complex procedures such as neurovascular interventions, targeted cancer treatments, heart surgeries, kidney and liver transplants, and bariatric care.
- Equipped with a 3.0 Tesla MRI, 256 Slice CT Angio, Cath Labs, Digital Orthopaedic Suite, and advanced diagnostic tools, and supported by 275+ doctors and 606+ trained staff, Max Smart Saket provides high-quality, multidisciplinary care for domestic and international patients.
Max Super Specialty Hospital, Shalimar Bagh
Delhi, India
- Max Super Speciality Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, is a 402-bed quaternary-care hospital in New Delhi, offering advanced treatment across 37+ specialities, including Cancer, Cardiac, Neurosciences, Gastroenterology, Orthopaedics, and Renal Transplant.
- Equipped with state-of-the-art technology and a team of highly skilled doctors and nurses, the hospital provides complex procedures, minimally invasive surgeries, and targeted cancer treatments, making it one of India’s leading healthcare destinations.
Amrita Hospital
Faridabad, India
Founded in 1998 by Mata Amritanandamayi (Amma), the Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre is one of India’s leading healthcare institutions, accredited by ISO, NABH, and NABL. With 2 branches, 7 medical colleges, and a network of 800+ doctors and 2,600+ beds, it offers comprehensive care across 81 specialties and 12 super-specialty departments, supported by 60+ modern operating theatres and 534 critical care beds. The Faridabad campus, a world-class multispeciality facility, houses advanced centers for oncology, neurosciences, cardiac sciences, gastro-sciences, mother and child care, and trauma care, along with India’s most comprehensive infectious disease unit. Guided by a mission of compassion and innovation, Amrita Hospitals combine cutting-edge medicine with humanitarian service to empower communities and promote holistic well-being.
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Why Choose India for Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment?
India is one of the most preferred destinations for treating squamous cell carcinoma. Compared to most other nations, the country offers affordable medical care without compromising quality. Due to its world-class healthcare infrastructure, highly trained oncologists, and advanced treatment facilities, it includes surgery, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapies. Additionally, India has various reputable cancer treatment centres that provide personalised treatment and access to the latest research and clinical trials, making them a target for local and international patients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) can spread to other body parts if left untreated in its initial stages. It can metastasise to distant sites such as the lymph nodes, lungs, liver, or bones or locally spread to adjacent tissues. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for a good prognosis since SCC becomes increasingly more challenging to treat when it metastasises.
Following an assessment of these variables, the oncologist will classify the tumour into one of the following phases of squamous cell carcinoma:
Stage 0: Only the epidermis, or the outermost layer of the skin, has cancer.
Stage 1: The cancer has advanced profoundly into the skin, but it hasn't reached any healthy tissues or lymph nodes nearby.
Stage 2: Cancer has not migrated to neighbouring lymph nodes or healthy tissues, but it has deepened into the skin and exhibits one or more high-risk characteristics (such as metastases to nerves or lower skin layers).
Stage 3: Although the cancer has spread to lymph nodes, it has not yet reached any other organs outside the skin.
Stage 4: The disease has progressed to one or more distant organs, including the liver, lungs and part of the skin.
The survival rate of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is based on early detection and spread condition. Early diagnosis and treatment are associated with a high 5-year survival rate of 90–95%.
The survival percentage, however, is often 50% or less if SCC has reached the lymph nodes or other distant sites. Early discovery and treatment increase the possibility of a successful course of therapy and recovery.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) can recur after treatment, mainly if it is advanced or not fully cured. Recurrence is more likely to happen if the patient has a history of skin cancer or if the tumour has spread to lymph nodes or surrounding tissues.
Regular follow-up and monitoring are necessary to detect recurrence symptoms early and initiate the appropriate treatment.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) cannot be transmitted. It cannot be passed from person to person by touch, contact, or commingling surroundings. SCC is a type of skin cancer not caused by bacteria, viruses, or other infectious processes; it arises from injury caused by conditions such as smoking, UV radiation, or specific infection. Environmental exposure and personal habits are generally responsible for the risk factors of SCC.