Adenoid squamous cell carcinoma (ASCC) is a type of cancer. It’s a bit complex, but we’ll break it down in simple terms for you. ASCC is a rare type of skin cancer that shows features of both adenoid (gland-like) structures and squamous cells (flat cells that look like fish scales under a microscope).
Types:
There are several types of squamous cell carcinoma, but ASCC is unique because of its gland-like features. There aren’t many sub-types of ASCC itself.
Causes:
- UV Radiation: Long-term exposure to the sun or tanning beds can increase the risk.
- HPV Infection: Some types of human papillomavirus are linked to skin cancers.
- Tobacco Use: Smoking or chewing can up the risk.
- Chemical Exposure: Some industrial chemicals increase risk.
- Radiation: Previous radiation treatments can trigger it.
- Chronic Inflammation: Long-term skin problems can lead to it.
- Burns or Scars: Old injuries might be a cause.
- Immunosuppression: A weak immune system means higher risk.
- Genetics: Family history can play a role.
- Fair Skin: People with lighter skin are more susceptible.
- Arsenic Exposure: Found in some drinking water or workplaces.
- Age: Older individuals face a higher risk.
- Gender: Men get it more often than women.
- Actinic Keratosis: A skin condition that can lead to cancer.
- Exposure to Tar: Like in coal or paraffin.
- Chronic Ulcers or Sores: That don’t heal.
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): Can up the risk.
- Certain Skin Conditions: Like dermatitis.
- Poor Nutrition: Not eating right.
- Alcohol Consumption: Heavy drinking might be a cause.
Symptoms:
- A Non-healing Sore: That might bleed.
- Scaly Red Patches: Which could itch or burn?
- Growths: Resembling warts.
- Raised Growth with Indented Center: With vessels visible.
- Open Sore: With a raised border.
- Rough, Thickened Skin: Different from the surrounding area.
- A wound that Itches or Hurts: Might also be tender.
- Scarring In areas without injury.
- Change in Mole: Or other skin growth.
- Gland Enlargement: Especially in the neck.
- Difficulty Moving Parts of Face: If on the face.
- Swelling or Redness: Extended beyond the sore.
- Nail Deformity: If on the finger or toenail.
- Unusual Skin Discoloration: Not like a typical tan.
- Change in Sensation: Like tingling or numbness.
- Ulcer Formation: Especially in the mouth or on the tongue.
- Facial Pain: If the carcinoma is on the face.
- Ear Pain: If close to the ear.
- Persistent Cough: Or hoarseness.
- Unexplained Weight Loss.
Diagnostic Tests:
- Skin Examination: The doctor checks for abnormalities.
- Biopsy: A sample is taken for examination.
- Dermatoscopy: A special magnifying tool checks the skin.
- MRI: Uses magnets to create detailed images.
- CT Scan: Several X-rays give a detailed view.
- PET Scan: Looks for cancer’s spread.
- Sentinel Node Biopsy: Checks for spread in lymph nodes.
- Endoscopy: For cancers inside the body.
- Blood Tests: To check general health.
- Ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create an image.
- X-rays: Check if the cancer has spread to the lungs.
- Molecular Testing: Looks at the tumor’s genes.
- Chest X-ray: Checks lungs.
- Bone Scan: To see if cancer has reached bones.
- Laryngoscopy: Checks throat.
- Tumor Marker Test: Checks substances linked to cancer.
- Lymphangiogram: Looks at the lymph system.
- Barium Swallow: X-rays of esophagus and stomach.
- Fine Needle Aspiration: Tests lumps or abnormalities.
- Punch Biopsy: Removes a circle of skin for testing.
Treatments:
- Surgery: Removes the tumor.
- Radiation Therapy: High-energy beams kill cancer cells.
- Chemotherapy: Drugs kill cancer cells.
- Topical Medications: Applied directly to the skin.
- Photodynamic Therapy: Light activates a drug to kill cells.
- Laser Surgery: Removes or destroys the tumor.
- Electrodessication and Curettage: Scraping away cancer and using electricity.
- Targeted Therapy: Targets cancer’s specific genes.
- Immunotherapy: Helps your immune system fight cancer.
- Cryosurgery: Freezes and destroys the tumor.
- Mohs Surgery: Removes skin layer by layer.
- Lymph Node Surgery: Removes affected nodes.
- Reconstructive Surgery: Fixes area after tumor removal.
- Radiosurgery: Uses radiation precisely.
- Carbon Ion Therapy: Targets tumors with carbon ions.
- Hormone Therapy: Stops hormones that help cancer grow.
- Ablation: Uses heat, cold, or electricity.
- Drug Therapy: Like EGFR inhibitors.
- Bone-directed Treatment: Helps when cancer is in bones.
- Plastic Surgery: For appearance post-surgery.
- Palliative Care: Eases symptoms and side effects.
- Gene Therapy: Changes genes to treat cancer.
- Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy: Targets cells with radiation.
- Sound Wave Therapy: Destroys cells with sound waves.
- Hyperthermia: Heats the body to kill cells.
- Stem Cell Transplant: Replaces damaged marrow.
- Vaccine Treatment: Boosts the body’s response to cancer.
- Angiogenesis Inhibitors: Stops blood vessel formation.
- Nutritional Support: Ensures patient stays strong.
- Supportive Care: Manages symptoms and improves quality of life.
Drugs:
- Cisplatin: Chemotherapy drug.
- 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU): Another chemo drug.
- Carboplatin: Used in combo with other drugs.
- Docetaxel: Treats many types of cancer.
- Paclitaxel: Another chemotherapy option.
- Bleomycin: Damages cancer cell’s DNA.
- Vorinostat: Targets enzymes in cancer cells.
- Erlotinib: Blocks proteins helping cancer grow.
- Avelumab: An immunotherapy drug.
- Cetuximab: Targets EGFR protein.
- Pembrolizumab: Boosts immune response against cancer.
- Nivolumab: Another immunotherapy drug.
- Afatinib: Inhibits proteins needed by cancer.
- Gefitinib: Blocks growth signals in cancer cells.
- Topical 5-FU: Applied directly to the skin.
- Imiquimod: Boosts immune system response.
- Ingenol mebutate: Causes cell death.
- Sunitinib: Stops tumor growth.
- Bevacizumab: Stops blood vessel formation.
- Bexarotene: Treats skin symptoms of T-cell lymphoma.
Remember, this is a simple overview. For detailed information, always consult a healthcare professional.
Disclaimer: Each person’s journey is unique, always seek the advice of a medical professional before trying any treatments to ensure to find the best plan for you. This guide is for general information and educational purposes only. If you or someone are suffering from this disease condition bookmark this page or share with someone who might find it useful! Boost your knowledge and stay ahead in your health journey. Thank you for giving your valuable time to read the article.
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