Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment in Singapore
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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 Singapore
In Singapore, the treatment landscape for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is making great strides, with a strong focus on precision medicine, immunotherapy, and cutting-edge drug delivery techniques. To combat cSCC while minimising side effects, researchers are developing topical MEK inhibitors that target the MEK1/2 proteins. Immunotherapies are also proving effective by boosting the body's immune response against cancer cells, especially in more advanced cases of cSCC. Additionally, scientists are exploring laser-assisted drug delivery (LADD) methods to enhance the penetration of topical therapies and improve their effectiveness in treating cSCC during its early stages.
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.
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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.
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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: Typically performed for facial malignancies, this procedure involves removing layers of cancerous skin.
- 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 (a chain of rehabilitation centres—part of MediGence) provides comprehensive rehabilitation services to support patients through Teleconsulations and online therapy sessions.
- 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 Singapore
Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital
Novena, Singapore
Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital located in Novena, Singapore is accredited by JCI. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:
- Capacity of 333 beds
- Intensive Care Unit beds
- Endoscopy beds
- Day ward with 20 beds
- 13 Operating Theatres, which includes 1 Neurological operating room, 2 Cardiac operating rooms, 4 Orthopaedic operating rooms, etc.
- High Dependency Unit (HDU)
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
- 24/7 Accident & Emergency Department
- Maternity ward
- 1 major operating unit with 13 operating rooms inclusive of 1 hybrid theatre
- In-house Pharmacy
- Rooms are categorized as Single Signature Rooms, Junior Suite and Regal Suite
- All patient rooms are equipped with electric safe, LCD, sofa cum bed, wardrobe, radio channels, and much more
Parkway East Hospital
Singapore, Singapore
Parkway East Hospital located in Joo Chiat Pl, Singapore is accredited by JCI. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:
- Total capacity for 143 beds
- Hospital rooms are available- Single room, 2-bedded room (8), 4-bedded room (2), Deluxe room, and Orchid/Hibiscus Suite
- All rooms are equipped with all ensuite facilities like Free wifi, mini fridge, sofa couch, telephone, in-room safe, TV, etc.
- Maternity wards- Accredited as a baby-friendly hospital under the World Health Organisations Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI)
- 1 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) with 14 cots
- Intensive Care Unit
- 1 Operation Theatre with 5 Operating rooms
- 1 Nursery with 30 cots
- 1 Parentcraft room
- 24-hour walk-in-clinic (for emergency)
- 24-hour Pharmacy
Mount Elizabeth Hospital
Singapore, Singapore
Mount Elizabeth Hospital located in Singapore, Singapore is accredited by JCI. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:
- 345 bedded Hospital
- Maternity wards
- The Mount Elizabeth Patient Assistance Centre (MPAC)
- 1 major operating unit with 12 operating rooms and 1 operating theatre dedicated to in vitro fertilisation (IVF)
- Intensive Care Unit
- High Dependency Unit (HDU)
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
- Accident & Emergency Department
- Rooms are categorized as Single rooms, 2-bedded rooms, 4-bedded rooms, Executive deluxe suite, Daffodil/Magnolia suite, VIP Room, and Royal Suite
- All patient rooms are equipped with electric safe, LCD, sofa cum bed, wardrobe, radio channels, and much more
- Parking lot
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Why Choose Singapore for Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment?
Singapore's advanced medical infrastructure, highly qualified medical personnel, and access to the latest research and technologies make it an excellent destination for treating squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). For SCC, the top institutions in the US offer state-of-the-art care, including immunotherapy, targeted medications, and novel surgical options. International clinical trials are also conducted in Singapore, providing patients with access to cutting-edge new therapies.
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 location, stage, and overall health of the patient are among the factors that influence the survival rate of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in Singapore, as in other regions. The survival rate for localised SCC is typically high, i.e. the cancer has not metastasised outside the original site. The key to better outcomes is early diagnosis and treatment.
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 the recurrence of 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 considered to be the primary risk factors for SCC.
Yes, you can get a second opinion on Squamous Cell Carcinoma treatment in Singapore through MediGence. With MediGence, you can connect with highly experienced professionals from top hospitals in Singapore who can provide additional information regarding your diagnosis and treatment options. The platform provides easy access to professional help, enabling you to make informed healthcare choices and receive the best care possible.
To find a certified cancer specialist, search MediGence’s website, which offers a list of top-class and internationally trained oncologists from Singapore's best hospitals. Through MediGence, you can search for specialists' profiles, review their credentials, experience, and ratings, and book online consultations. To receive the best care for your condition, the website also helps you find the best hospitals and provides personalised assistance tailored to your health needs.