If you’ve been diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), one of the most common types of skin cancer, you might be wondering what your treatment options are. While traditional treatments like surgery and radiotherapy remain highly effective, there are exciting new advances giving you even more options especially if your cancer is advanced or considered high-risk.
In recent years, treatments such as immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and refined surgical methods have transformed the way SCC is managed. These breakthroughs not only improve survival rates but also help minimize side effects, making your journey a little easier and improving your overall quality of life.
One of the most promising developments is immunotherapy. This approach essentially “trains” your immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. Unlike conventional treatments that target the tumor directly, immunotherapy works with your body’s natural defenses, which can make it a powerful option if your SCC is stubborn or has returned after previous treatments.
You might also find that targeted therapies are an option. These treatments are designed to attack specific molecules or pathways that cancer cells rely on to grow, which can mean fewer side effects for you compared to traditional chemotherapy. And for some patients, newer surgical techniques or even combinations of these treatments can make a big difference in both outcomes and recovery time.
No matter where you are in your journey, it’s important that you discuss these options with your dermatologist or oncologist. They can help you understand which treatment is right for you based on your specific diagnosis, overall health, and personal preferences.
A Quick Overview of Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a type of non-melanoma skin cancer that starts in the squamous cells the cells that make up the middle and outer layers of your skin. You might notice it as a scaly patch, an open sore, or a raised growth that just doesn’t seem to heal.
Most cases develop due to long-term sun exposure, frequent use of tanning beds, or a weakened immune system. While SCC often grows slowly, it can spread to other parts of your body if left untreated. That’s why spotting it early and getting timely treatment is so important catching it sooner makes managing it much easier.
You should also know that SCC can appear anywhere on your body, but it’s most common on areas that are regularly exposed to the sun, like your face, ears, neck, and hands. If you notice any new or unusual spots, or a sore that isn’t healing, it’s a good idea to get it checked. Even if it seems minor, early evaluation can save you a lot of worry down the road.
The good news is that SCC is usually highly treatable, especially when detected early. Depending on your specific case, your doctor might recommend options ranging from simple surgical removal to newer treatments like immunotherapy or targeted therapy. Staying vigilant about your skin health and attending regular check-ups gives you the best chance for a smooth recovery and long-term protection.
Traditional Treatments for SCC
Before exploring newer options, it’s helpful to understand the standard treatments that are still widely used:
- Surgical excision: This involves removing the tumor along with some of the surrounding healthy tissue to ensure all cancer cells are eliminated.
- Mohs micrographic surgery: A precise, layer-by-layer removal method where each layer is examined under a microscope immediately, reducing the risk of leaving cancer cells behind.
- Cryotherapy: Freezing off small tumors, which is often a quick and minimally invasive approach.
- Radiotherapy: Using targeted radiation to destroy cancer cells, often recommended when surgery isn’t feasible.
These methods remain highly effective for most early-stage SCC cases. However, if your cancer is advanced, comes back after treatment, or is located in a high-risk area, your doctor might suggest exploring newer treatments that can offer better outcomes or fewer side effects.
The New Wave of Treatments
Thanks to medical advances, treating SCC is no longer a one-size-fits-all approach. Today, doctors have a range of newer options that can be tailored to your situation. Here’s a look at some of the most promising treatments currently used in clinics worldwide.
1. Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy works by boosting your own immune system to fight cancer. Instead of directly attacking the tumor like surgery or radiation, immunotherapy “trains” your immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells on its own.
For SCC, the main immunotherapy drugs are PD-1 inhibitors, such as:
- Cemiplimab (Libtayo)
- Pembrolizumab (Keytruda)
These medications block the “checkpoint” proteins that cancer cells use to hide from your immune system. Once these checkpoints are blocked, your immune cells can attack the tumor more effectively.
When is it used?
- For advanced or metastatic SCC.
- For patients who aren’t candidates for surgery or radiotherapy.
Benefits:
- Effective even in challenging cases.
- Can shrink tumors and prevent further spread.
- Improves long-term survival.
2. Targeted Therapy
Targeted therapy works by zeroing in on specific genetic mutations or pathways that cancer cells rely on to grow. Unlike traditional chemotherapy, which can affect both healthy and cancerous cells, targeted therapy is much more precise, meaning fewer side effects for you.
For SCC, a commonly used targeted drug is Erlotinib, which blocks epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFR). These receptors are often overactive in squamous cell cancers, helping the tumor grow and spread. By blocking EGFR, the drug can slow or stop cancer growth.
When is it used?
- For advanced SCC.
- Often in combination with other treatments for better results.
Benefits:
- More precise than standard chemotherapy.
- Typically comes with fewer side effects compared to traditional systemic treatments.
3. Photodynamic Therapy (PDT)
Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an innovative approach that uses a light-sensitive medication along with a special light source. When the medication is activated by the light, it targets and destroys cancer cells while leaving most healthy tissue unharmed.
When is it used?
- For superficial SCCs.
- For patients who prefer a non-invasive treatment option.
Benefits:
- Minimally invasive, so you don’t have to go through major surgery.
- Preserves surrounding healthy tissue.
- Often leaves less scarring compared to traditional treatments.
4. Advanced Surgical Techniques
Surgery remains a cornerstone of SCC treatment, but newer techniques are making it even more precise and effective.
- Refined Mohs surgery: This enhanced method allows for higher precision, making it especially useful for delicate areas like your face or other sensitive spots.
- Image-guided surgery: By using advanced imaging, your surgeon can ensure the entire tumor is removed while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
- Reconstructive techniques: After removing larger tumors, these methods help improve cosmetic outcomes, so you can maintain both function and appearance.
These advancements mean that even if your SCC requires surgery, you can benefit from more accurate removal, less damage to surrounding tissue, and better overall results.
5. Combination Approaches
In many cases, the most effective results come from combining different treatments. Depending on your situation, your doctor might recommend:
- Surgery followed by radiotherapy for aggressive tumors.
- Immunotherapy combined with targeted therapy for advanced or hard-to-treat cases.
- PDT alongside topical creams for superficial surface cancers.
These tailored approaches are becoming increasingly common in modern SCC care. By combining treatments, your medical team can target the cancer more effectively while minimizing side effects and preserving healthy tissue.
What About Clinical Trials?
If standard treatments aren’t suitable for your situation, or if you’re dealing with advanced or recurrent SCC, you may be eligible to take part in clinical trials. These studies explore experimental therapies that aren’t yet widely available, giving patients access to cutting-edge options that could make a real difference.
Clinical trials for SCC may include:
- Next-generation immunotherapies designed to boost your immune system in more targeted and effective ways.
- Personalized cancer vaccines that are tailored to your specific tumor’s genetic makeup, helping your body recognize and attack cancer cells more efficiently.
- Combination treatments that bring together multiple therapies in ways not yet standard in routine care, aiming for better outcomes with fewer side effects.
Participating in a clinical trial is more than just trying a new treatment it also contributes to advancing research that could help future patients. Your consultant or oncologist can guide you through the process and advise whether a clinical trial could be a suitable and safe option for you. They’ll help you understand the potential benefits, risks, and what to expect throughout the study.
Being part of a clinical trial can give you access to innovative therapies while receiving close monitoring and support from a specialized medical team. If you’re curious about the latest developments or looking for options beyond standard care, it’s definitely worth asking your doctor about any ongoing trials you might qualify for.
Side Effects of New Treatments
Like all cancer therapies, the newer treatment options for SCC can come with side effects. Knowing what to expect can help you manage them and stay comfortable during your treatment journey.
- Immunotherapy: You may experience fatigue, skin rashes, or inflammation in organs such as your liver or lungs. These reactions happen because your immune system is more active than usual, but your medical team can monitor and manage them.
- Targeted therapy: Some people notice skin reactions, diarrhea, or changes to their nails. These side effects are usually milder than those seen with traditional chemotherapy and can often be controlled with supportive care.
- Photodynamic therapy (PDT): After treatment, your skin may become temporarily red, swollen, or highly sensitive to light. Following your doctor’s instructions on sun protection and skincare can minimize discomfort.
The good news is that, overall, these newer treatments tend to have side effects that are more manageable and less severe than traditional chemotherapy. By communicating openly with your healthcare team, you can find strategies to reduce side effects and maintain a better quality of life while undergoing treatment.
Choosing the Right Treatment
Deciding which treatment is best for you depends on several factors. Your doctor will consider:
- The stage and size of your cancer: Early-stage tumors may be treated effectively with surgery or PDT, while advanced cases might need immunotherapy or combination approaches.
- Your overall health: Certain treatments may be better suited to your body’s condition and tolerance for side effects.
- Whether the SCC is localized or has spread: The location and extent of the cancer can influence whether you need surgery, radiation, or systemic therapy.
- Your personal preferences and cosmetic concerns: Some treatments focus on minimizing scarring or preserving appearance, which may be important if the cancer is on your face or other visible areas.
Because every case is unique, a professional consultation is essential. If you’re considering private squamous cell carcinoma treatment in London, specialists can carefully assess your situation, discuss all available options, and recommend a personalized treatment plan that aligns with your health needs and lifestyle. Taking the time to understand your options can help you feel confident in your treatment journey and ensure the best possible outcomes.
Living Beyond SCC: Long-Term Outlook
With modern treatments, the outlook for SCC is very encouraging, especially when it’s caught early. Even if your case is advanced, new options like immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and combination treatments have significantly improved outcomes, giving many patients a real chance at long-term remission.
For most people, life after SCC can be healthy and fulfilling. Regular check-ups are essential to catch any recurrences early, and taking steps to protect your skin like using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding tanning beds can help prevent new cancers from developing.
Beyond the medical side, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and staying informed about new advances in SCC treatment can also support your recovery and overall well-being. By staying proactive, you can enjoy life with confidence while keeping your skin health in check.
FAQs for SCC:
1. What is squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)?
Squamous cell carcinoma is a common type of non-melanoma skin cancer that starts in the squamous cells, which make up the middle and outer layers of your skin. You might notice it as a scaly patch, a raised growth, or an open sore that doesn’t seem to heal. While SCC usually grows slowly, it can spread to other parts of your body if left untreated, which is why early detection is so important.
2. What causes SCC?
SCC is primarily caused by long-term exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun or tanning beds. Other factors, such as having a weakened immune system, fair skin, or a history of frequent sunburns, can increase your risk. Certain genetic conditions or previous skin injuries may also make it more likely for SCC to develop. Even if you take precautions, staying vigilant with regular skin checks is essential because SCC can appear gradually and subtly.
3. How can I spot SCC early?
Early detection is key to successful treatment. You should look out for new or changing skin spots, particularly rough or scaly patches, raised bumps, or sores that don’t heal. Lesions that crust over, bleed, or feel firm should be evaluated promptly. Even if a spot seems minor or painless, having it checked by a dermatologist can help catch SCC before it becomes more serious.
4. What are the traditional treatments for SCC?
Traditional treatments remain highly effective, especially for early-stage SCC. Surgical excision involves removing the tumor along with some surrounding healthy tissue to ensure all cancer cells are eliminated. Mohs micrographic surgery is a precise technique where layers of skin are removed and examined immediately under a microscope, helping to preserve healthy tissue while removing all cancer cells. Cryotherapy uses extreme cold to destroy small tumors, and radiotherapy employs targeted radiation to kill cancer cells when surgery isn’t suitable. These methods continue to be the foundation of SCC management.
5. What are the new treatment options for SCC?
Recent advances have expanded the range of treatment options for SCC, offering more personalized approaches. Immunotherapy works by stimulating your immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells, which can be particularly helpful in advanced or recurrent cases. Targeted therapy attacks specific pathways or mutations in cancer cells, often reducing side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy. Photodynamic therapy combines a light-sensitive medication with a special light source to destroy superficial tumors while preserving healthy tissue. Advanced surgical techniques, including refined Mohs surgery, image-guided surgery, and reconstructive methods, provide greater precision and better cosmetic outcomes. In many cases, doctors may also combine these treatments for more effective results.
6. When is immunotherapy recommended for SCC?
Immunotherapy is usually recommended when SCC is advanced, has spread to other parts of the body, or if surgery and radiotherapy are not suitable options. These treatments help your immune system recognize and destroy cancer cells more effectively, which can shrink tumors, prevent further spread, and improve long-term survival. Your specialist will carefully evaluate whether immunotherapy is appropriate for your specific case.
7. What side effects should I expect from new treatments?
Like all cancer therapies, new treatments for SCC can have side effects, but they are generally more manageable than those from traditional chemotherapy. Immunotherapy may cause fatigue, skin rashes, or inflammation in organs such as your liver or lungs. Targeted therapy can result in skin reactions, diarrhea, or changes to nails, while photodynamic therapy may leave your skin temporarily red, swollen, or sensitive to light. By staying in close contact with your medical team, these side effects can be monitored and controlled, allowing you to maintain a better quality of life during treatment.
8. Are there clinical trials for SCC?
If standard treatments are not suitable, you might be eligible to participate in clinical trials, which explore experimental therapies not yet widely available. These trials may include next-generation immunotherapies, personalized cancer vaccines, or combination treatments designed to improve outcomes with fewer side effects. Participating in a clinical trial not only gives you access to cutting-edge therapies but also contributes to research that can help future patients. Your consultant can guide you through whether a trial is appropriate and explain the potential benefits and risks
9. How do I choose the right treatment for me?
Choosing the right treatment depends on a variety of factors, including the size and stage of your cancer, whether it is localized or has spread, and your overall health. Personal preferences, such as concerns about scarring or recovery time, also play an important role. Because every case is unique, consulting a specialist is crucial. They can evaluate your situation in detail and recommend a personalized treatment plan that balances effectiveness with your comfort and lifestyle
10. What is the long-term outlook for SCC?
The long-term outlook for SCC is generally excellent, particularly when the cancer is detected early. Even in advanced cases, new therapies such as immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and combination approaches have significantly improved survival rates. After treatment, maintaining regular check-ups, protecting your skin from UV exposure, and leading a healthy lifestyle can help prevent recurrences. Many patients go on to live healthy, fulfilling lives, enjoying confidence in their skin health and overall well-being.
Final Thoughts: The Future of SCC Treatment
Squamous cell carcinoma is one of the most common skin cancers, but the good news is that treatments are evolving rapidly. While surgery remains the standard for early cases, exciting new options such as immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and photodynamic therapy are improving outcomes for patients with more advanced disease.
If you’re thinking about private Squamous Cell Carcinoma treatment in London, get in touch with us at the London Dermatology Centre to book a consultation with one of our specialists. We’ll work with you to explore personalized treatment plans safely and confidently. Taking proactive steps can not only improve your treatment outcomes but also help you regain peace of mind and confidence, so you can focus on life beyond SCC.
References:
1. National Cancer Institute (NCI). (2025). Photodynamic Therapy to Treat Cancer. Available at: https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/types/photodynamic-therapy
2. Ghosh, S., et al. (2022). Novel Systemic Treatment Modalities Including Immunotherapy and Targeted Therapy for Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 40(10), 1234-1245. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35887235/
3. Xu, M., et al. (2024). Advancements in Skin Cancer Treatment: Focus on Immunotherapy, Targeted Therapy, and Chemotherapy. Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 35(2), 98-107. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11560809/
4. Ansary, T. M., et al. (2022). Immunotherapy for the Treatment of Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Journal of Clinical Immunology, 45(3), 234-245. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9368833/ 5. Ghosh, S., Shah, P.A. and Johnson, F.M., 2022. Novel Systemic Treatment Modalities Including Immunotherapy and Molecular Targeted Therapy for Recurrent and Metastatic Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, [online] 23(14), p. 7889. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9320653/