Skin Cancer
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
What is squamous cell carcinoma?
Squamous cell skin cancer (sometimes referred to as non-melanoma skin cancer) may appear as nodules, or as red, scaly patches or small bumps on the skin. Actinic Keratoses (also called precancers) are markers of increased skin cancer risk and are typically treated to prevent possible progression to squamous cell carcinoma.
Who is at risk for squamous cell carcinoma?
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common skin cancer found in Caucasians, and is usually found on fair-skinned persons.
This form of cancer develops in approximately 200,000 persons per year. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, the cure rate for squamous cell carcinoma is 95 percent, when properly treated. Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common cause of skin cancer-related dealths, after melanoma. Thus prompt diagnosis and treatment are mandatory.
Where is squamous cell carcinoma found?
Squamous cell carcinoma is typically is found on sun exposed sites of the head, neck and arms and may be seen on the rim of the ear, face, lips and mouth. It can spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. Although generally more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma, this cancer is highly treatable.