Squamous cell carcinoma of the scalp (skin)

@leweslad, I'm tagging you in this exising discussion:
- Squamous cell carcinoma of the scalp (skin)
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/squamous-cell-carcinoma/
I did this so you can click the link to read previous posts and easily connect with other members like @dankay36 @ndhp82a @joanski @frankiedowns @nancyj21 @gingerw who have shared their experiences.

Leweslad, you mentioned you've had several biopsies. Have you had the lesion(s) treated? How are you doing?

I am 79 and had MOHs surgery on the top of my head in November. Unfortunately, the SCC had developed into a tumor about the size of a misshaped quarter and was painful by the time I was able to have it removed. I thought it was an infection. This was done in the surgeon's office and after two try's they got it all. The surgery and recovery were really no big deal and a big relief. No one should have second thoughts about having this done. After the surgery, the tumor was genetically biopsied and came back category 2 A meaning an intermediate risk of return. the surgeon recommended adjuvant radiation. The margins were clean. I had a CT scan to look at the lymph nodes with perfect results. I decided to get a second opinion before engaging in radiation therapy every day for 5 weeks. Again another 3 mo. wait with another dermatologist. In retrospect I should have gone to a large cancer specialty center in the Boston area. Any advise?

Hello and you described what I have and am going to the doctor this morning to discuss treatment. This is a recurring situation and thank you for your detailed information. It gives me hope ~ Will check back here in a few days and hugs to you for what you are going through (I am 77 y/o and all this just happened at this point in my life, as well). Looking forward to others' advice/suggestions. I too, live in a small town and it does take longer for things to happen.

Depending on the size and stage of your squamous
cell the scalp is usually done with Mohs surgery.
Hoping you have access to a fellowship trained board
certified surgeon.

I had one removed from my arm in the doctor's office. If you catch it soon enough then the treatment is pretty straightforward to just remove the cancer by with minor surgery. This is one reason why I see the dermatologist every 6 mos.

I had a large squamous cell lesion removed from near my hairline/forehead in June. My recommendation is to have a plastic surgeon close the wound after the surgery to minimize (not eliminate) the scarring. After surgery I had a Frankensteinish 4 inch line of stitches but now it is not that noticeable. Fortunately, I was able to avoid a skin graft which is much more difficult from an aesthetic point of view. Both the surgery and reconstruction were done under only local anesthesia with no discomfort.

I am 85 , Two years ago I had a 1" dia squamous cell liason removed from my head by my GP in his office .
It was then treated over several weeks , at home , by Efudex . A topical chemotherapy cream .
NO PROBLEMS - Condition cleared up and solved . This cream is also used to remove brown spots - a possible lesser form of cancer , basil cell . ( often used by golfers on their arms .)

Coleen ,
I just posted Re : Squamous cell thread .
Two years ago I had a one inch diameter leison removed from my head in my GP's office , followed by several weeks self treatment at home with Efudex , a topical chemo cream .
Problem solved - I am 85 years old .

@informationplease, how did your appointment with the doctor go? What treatment was recommended? How are you doing?

You were lucky Keith. I had a squamous on my face removed by Mohs months ago and am sad to report it still is very sensitive all the time & if the area is touched, drives me crazy. It was done under local anesthesia and was quite uncomfortable.
It looks like a deep wrinkle and is quite noticeable even under makeup. Part of my lip is pulled under into my mouth. Needless to say I am not a happy camper.