Large Cell Keratinizing Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Large cell keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma is a type of cancer that typically originates in the squamous epithelial cells, which are flat, scale-like cells found in various tissues, including the skin and the lining of certain organs. Squamous cell carcinomas are often associated with the skin, but they can also occur in mucous membranes, such as those that line the respiratory and digestive tracts.
“Large cell” refers to the size of the cancer cells when viewed under a microscope. Large cell keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma typically features relatively large cancer cells with abundant cytoplasm (a gel-like substance within cells) and nuclei (the central part of the cell containing genetic material).
“Keratinizing” indicates that the cancer cells tend to produce keratin, a fibrous structural protein found in the skin, hair and nails. When cancer cells produce keratin, the cells may form structures resembling keratin pearls, a characteristic feature of this type of squamous cell carcinoma.
Large cell keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma causes and risk factors
Like other types of squamous cell carcinoma, large cell keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma has been linked to several risk factors, including:
- Smoking and other forms of tobacco use
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
- Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light
- Exposure to certain chemicals, such as asbestos and petroleum-based products
- Prior radiation treatment delivered to the head and neck region
- Chronic inflammation
- Poor nutrition
The presence of one or more risk factors does not necessarily mean cancer will develop, but it does call for regular medical check-ups and a focus on lifestyle modifications to reduce the overall risk. Early detection—which can often be achieved with routine skin cancer screenings and prompt medical evaluations of any unusual symptoms—is crucial for the timely diagnosis and treatment of large cell keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma.
Large cell keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma signs and symptoms
The warning signs of large cell keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma can vary depending on the location of the tumor. If the cancer affects the skin, the symptoms can include:
- A firm skin bump (nodule) that may be flesh-colored, pink, red, brown or black
- A flat, crusted sore
- A raised area on an old sore or scar
- A rough, scaly patch on the lip that may become an open sore
- A sore or rough patch inside the mouth
- A raised patch or wartlike sore on the genitals or anus
While large cell keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma frequently affects the skin, it can affect other organs as well, such as the lungs. Possible symptoms include:
- Persistent coughing
- Coughing up blood or mucus
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Vocal hoarseness
- Difficulty swallowing
- Swelling in the face and neck
- Chest pain
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Recurrent respiratory infections, such as pneumonia and bronchitis
Large cell keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma diagnosis
The diagnostic process for large cell keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma typically involves a series of medical assessments and tests, which may include:
- A medical history review and physical examination
- Imaging studies, such as chest X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans and positron emission tomography (PET) scans
- A biopsy and histological examination of the tissue sample
- A bronchoscopy
- A pulmonary function test
- Blood work
Large cell keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma treatment
Once a diagnosis of large cell keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma is confirmed and the staging process is complete, the physician will explain the results and develop a personalized treatment plan. Treatment options may include:
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation therapy
- Immunotherapy
- Targeted therapy
Benefit from world-class care at Moffitt Cancer Center
The experienced team in Moffitt’s Cutaneous Oncology Program takes a comprehensive, multispecialty approach to diagnosing and treating all types of squamous cell carcinoma, including large cell keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma. If you have questions, you can request an appointment with a specialist at Moffitt by calling 1-888-663-3488 or submitting a new patient registration form online. We do not require referrals.