Squamous dysplasia is a precancerous condition, which means the affected cells are not cancerous but have the potential to develop into cancer over time if left untreated. The term describes changes in squamous cells, which are flat cells that cover the surface of certain tissues in the body. Under the microscope, these cells look abnormal, and the degree of abnormality can help predict the risk of progression to cancer.
Squamous dysplasia is often caused by factors that irritate or damage the squamous cells over a long period. Common causes include:
Squamous dysplasia can develop anywhere squamous cells are found in the body. This includes:
Each location may have unique causes and risks for developing squamous dysplasia.
Under the microscope, squamous dysplasia affects the epithelium, the thin layer of squamous cells that forms the surface of the tissue. Normally, the squamous cells are arranged in neat, organized layers. In squamous dysplasia, the cells become disorganized and start to look abnormal. They may have larger, darker nuclei, irregular shapes, and show signs of increased cell division. Despite these changes, the abnormal cells remain confined to the epithelium and do not invade deeper layers of the tissue. This distinction is important because it separates dysplasia from cancer.
No, squamous dysplasia is not cancer. However, it is a precancerous condition, which means the abnormal cells have the potential to develop into a type of cancer called squamous cell carcinoma over time. The risk of this happening depends on the severity of the dysplasia, which can range from mild to severe. Mild dysplasia often goes away on its own, while severe dysplasia has a higher chance of progressing to cancer if untreated.
The time it takes for squamous dysplasia to turn into cancer varies depending on the severity of the dysplasia and other factors like your overall health and whether the underlying cause (such as HPV infection or smoking) is addressed. In some cases, severe dysplasia may progress to cancer within a few years if left untreated, while mild dysplasia may take longer or never progress at all.
The prognosis for someone with squamous dysplasia is usually excellent, especially when diagnosed and treated early. Treatments may include removing or monitoring the abnormal cells and addressing the underlying cause, such as quitting smoking or treating an infection. Regular follow-up with your doctor is essential to ensure the dysplasia does not progress to cancer.