Your Skin Health Matters

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, or cSCC, is the second most common type of skin cancer. It often appears on sun-exposed areas like the face, ears, scalp, neck, and hands. While it can grow and spread if left untreated, it’s usually curable when found early.

At Bangkok Hospital Phuket, we offer expert care using modern treatments to ensure the best outcomes.

What Causes cSCC?

Most cases are caused by long-term sun exposure. UV radiation damages skin cells over time, increasing the risk of abnormal cell growth. Other contributing factors include:

• Tanning bed use
• Fair skin and light-colored eyes
• A weakened immune system
• Chronic skin injuries or inflammation
• Previous history of skin cancer

What to Look For

Signs of cSCC can vary, but often include:

1. A scaly, red patch or sore that doesn’t heal

2. A firm, raised bump

3. A wart-like growth

4. A sore that bleeds or crusts repeatedly

If you notice any unusual or changing skin lesions, it’s best to get checked.

How We Diagnose It

Our dermatologists will:

1. Examine the lesion closely
2. Use tools like dermatoscopy to assess skin changes
3. Perform a skin biopsy to confirm the diagnosis

Quick, accurate diagnosis is key to effective treatment.

Treatment Options at Bangkok Hospital Phuket

• Treatment depends on the location, size, and stage of the cancer. Options include:
• Surgical removal: Cutting out the cancer with a margin of healthy skin
• Mohs surgery: A specialized technique that removes the cancer layer by layer, ideal for facial or high-risk tumors
• Cryotherapy: Freezing early-stage lesions
• Topical treatments: Creams for certain surface-level cancers
• Radiation therapy: For select cases when surgery isn’t suitable

Why Trust Us with Your Skin Cancer Care?

• Board-certified dermatologists and skin cancer surgeons
• Specialized experience in Mohs micrographic surgery
• Advanced diagnostic tools and lab support
• Multidisciplinary care tailored to your needs
• Comfortable, private treatment setting

Protect Your Skin: Prevention Tips

• Use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily (SPF 30 or higher)
• Avoid direct sun during peak hours
• Wear hats and protective clothing
• Skip tanning beds
• See a dermatologist for regular skin checks

Reference

• Kwiek B, Schwartz RA. Keratoacanthoma (KA): An update and review. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology 2016;74:1220-33.
• Wysong A. Squamous-Cell Carcinoma of the Skin. N Engl J Med. 2023 Jun 15;388(24):2262-2273. doi: 10.1056/NEJMra2206348. PMID: 37314707.
• National comprehensive cancer network[NCCN] 2025