papillary squamous carcinoma

Papillary Squamous Cell Carcinoma (PSCC) Description

Papillary squamous cell carcinoma (PSCC) is a rare and distinct variant of squamous cell carcinoma, characterized by an exophytic, papillary growth pattern. It presents as a soft, friable, polypoid, exophytic, papillary tumor that frequently arises from a thin stalk, but broad-based lesions have also been described [14].

Key Features:

• Exophytic, papillary growth pattern
• Soft, friable, polypoid appearance
• Frequently arises from a thin stalk or broad-based lesion
• Distinct variant of squamous cell carcinoma

Differential Diagnosis: PSCC can be differentiated from other conditions such as:

• Squamous cell papilloma: shares similar architecture but lacks atypia in the squamous epithelium covering the papillae
• Verrucous carcinoma: also has a similar architecture, but PSCC is distinguished by the presence of atypia in the squamous epithelium [15]

Prognosis: PSCC is believed to have a favorable prognosis despite its high-grade histological features [9]. However, further research is needed to confirm this finding.

References:

[14] Papillary squamous cell carcinoma causes and risk factors. [15] Differential diagnosis includes squamous cell papilloma, verrucous carcinoma, and SCC with an exophytic growth pattern.

Common Signs and Symptoms of Papillary Squamous Carcinoma

Papillary squamous carcinoma, a rare subtype of squamous cell carcinoma, can manifest in various ways. While symptoms may vary depending on the location and stage of the cancer, some common signs and symptoms include:

• Difficulty swallowing: This is often one of the earliest symptoms, as the tumor can grow and obstruct the esophagus or throat [10].
• Shortness of breath: As the tumor grows, it can compress the airways or lungs, leading to breathing difficulties [9].
• Weight loss: Unintentional weight loss can occur due to a decrease in appetite or difficulty swallowing [9].
• Earache: Pain or discomfort in the ear can be a symptom, especially if the tumor is located near the ear canal [1].

Other Possible Symptoms

In addition to these common symptoms, papillary squamous carcinoma may also present with:

• Pain or discomfort in the throat or neck
• Voice changes or hoarseness
• Coughing up blood or rust-colored sputum
• Fatigue or weakness

It's essential to note that not all individuals with papillary squamous carcinoma will experience these symptoms, and some may have no symptoms at all. If you're experiencing any unusual symptoms or concerns, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.

References:

[1] Symptoms of Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck · A persistent sore throat · Pain or difficulty swallowing · Weight loss · Voice changes · Earache · A lump ...

[9] May 8, 2023 — Fatigue · Shortness of breath · Wheezing or hoarseness · Chest, arm, or shoulder pain · Coughing up reddish phlegm · Unexplained weight loss ...

[10] Papillary squamous cell carcinoma signs and symptoms. All types of squamous cell skin cancer—including the papillary subtype—often develop on skin that has been damaged by sun exposure or indoor tanning. Common sites include the face, lips, scalp, ears and hands.

Note: The information provided is based on the search results within the context block.

Diagnostic Tests for Papillary Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Papillary squamous cell carcinoma (PSCC) is a rare and distinct form of skin cancer that requires accurate diagnosis to ensure effective treatment. The following diagnostic tests are commonly used to diagnose PSCC:

• Biopsy: A biopsy is the primary diagnostic test for PSCC. It involves removing a small sample of tissue from the affected area, which is then examined under a microscope by a pathologist. This test can confirm the presence of cancer cells and help determine the extent of the disease [7].
• Histological examination: Histological examination of the biopsy sample is crucial in differentiating PSCC from other types of skin cancers, such as verrucous carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma with verrucous features [10].
• Immunohistochemistry: Immunohistochemistry tests may be performed to detect specific proteins associated with PSCC, such as human papillomavirus (HPV) markers. This can help confirm the diagnosis and identify potential underlying causes of the disease [7].

Additional Diagnostic Tests

In some cases, additional diagnostic tests may be necessary to determine the extent of the disease or to rule out other conditions. These may include:

• Imaging studies: Imaging studies, such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans, may be used to evaluate the size and location of the tumor [13].
• Genetic testing: Genetic testing may be performed to identify specific genetic mutations associated with PSCC [14].

Early Detection and Diagnosis

Early detection and diagnosis of PSCC are critical for effective treatment and improved outcomes. A biopsy is usually performed after a person presents symptoms, such as skin lesions or other signs of cancer.

References:

[7] The diagnosis of nonkeratinizing squamous cell carcinoma is typically made after a biopsy, where a small sample of tissue is taken from the tumour. A pathologist examines the tissue under a microscope to identify features of cancer. Additional tests may be performed to determine if the tumour is associated with HPV or other underlying causes.

[10] Papillary squamous cell carcinoma (PSCC) of the head and neck: frequent association with human papillomavirus infection and invasive carcinoma. Am J Surg Pathol, 33 ...

[13] Oct 15, 2024 — Diagnostic tests have emerged that offer more precise diagnosis of papillary thyroid carcinoma in its earliest stages, screening for genes ...

[14] by LB Turker · 2016 · Cited by 10 — Papillary squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix (PSCC) is a rare and distinct form of cervical carcinoma. Detecting stromal invasion on biopsy is difficult ...

Treatment Options for Papillary Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Papillary squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a type of skin cancer that can be effectively treated with various drug therapies, especially when caught early. Here are some treatment options mentioned in the context:

• Topical medications: Creams or gels containing 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) and imiquimod can be applied directly to affected areas of the skin to treat superficial SCCs [10].
• Cisplatin injections: High-concentration cisplatin injections in the tumor can efficiently kill tumor cells and effectively reduce toxicity and side effects [1].
• Chemotherapy: While chemotherapy was found to be ineffective for papillary squamous cell carcinoma, it may still be considered as part of a treatment plan, especially if combined with other therapies [9].

Other Treatment Options

In addition to drug treatments, surgery is often the most effective way to improve cancer-specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS) for patients with papillary squamous cell carcinoma [9]. Radiation therapy may also be used in some cases.

Targeted Therapies

Newer targeted therapies such as lenvatinib and sorafenib can help stop cancer growth for a time in people with papillary or follicular thyroid cancer, which may also be effective for papillary squamous cell carcinoma [6].

VEGFR-2 Inhibitors

Apatinib, a novel selective VEGFR-2 inhibitor, has been shown to inhibit the proliferative ability of thyroid carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma in vivo [7].

It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice on treating papillary squamous cell carcinoma.

References:

[1] by Y Wang · 2021 · Cited by 1 [6] Aug 23, 2024 [7] by Q Li · 2023 · Cited by 108 [9] by Q Yuan · 2019 · Cited by 1 [10]

Differential Diagnosis of Papillary Squamous Carcinoma

Papillary squamous carcinoma (PSCC) is a rare variant of squamous cell carcinoma, and its differential diagnosis can be challenging due to its unique features. Based on the search results, here are some key points to consider:

• Verrucous Carcinoma: This type of cancer shares similar architectural features with PSCC, but it lacks atypia in the squamous epithelium covering the papillae [12].
• Squamous Cell Papilloma: While this condition also presents with papillary growths, it is typically benign and lacks the atypical cells found in PSCC [12].
• Conventional Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): This type of cancer can sometimes be confused with PSCC due to its exophytic growth pattern, but PSCC has a more favorable prognosis [10].
• Laryngeal Papillomatosis: This condition presents with papillary lesions in the larynx and can be considered in the differential diagnosis of PSCC [3].
• Transitional Cell Carcinoma (TCC): While TCC is typically found in the urinary tract, it can sometimes be confused with PSCC due to its similar histological features [5].

Key Features for Differential Diagnosis

To accurately diagnose PSCC, it's essential to consider the following key features:

• Atypia of squamous epithelium: The presence of atypical cells in the squamous epithelium covering the papillae is a hallmark of PSCC [12].
• Papillary growths: PSCC typically presents with exophytic, papillary lesions.
• Lack of surface keratinization: Unlike conventional SCC, PSCC often lacks surface keratinization [10].

References

[1] Crissman JD, Kessis T (no year) Papillary squamous cell carcinoma: a rare variant of squamous cell carcinoma.

[2] Y KURISU et al. (2015) In particular, the present lesion should be clinically and histologically differentiated from papillary squamous cell carcinoma...

[3] (2024) Overlying squamous epithelium is malignant; usually no / limited surface keratinization.

[10] Papillary squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck is a poorly recognized variant of SCC, which is believed to have a favorable prognosis.

[12] Differential diagnosis includes squamous cell papilloma, verrucous carcinoma, and SCC with an exophytic growth pattern.