 Squamous Cell Cancer
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 Example of Squamous Cell Cancer |
- Squamous cell skin cancer is a malignant (cancerous) growth of the epithelial layer of the skin. This is the external surface.
- It is curable with treatment.
- Overexposure to x-rays.
- Excessive exposure to the sun.
- A raised bump on the skin with a crusting ulcer in the center.
- It is usually small and scaling.
- It can be disfiguring.
- Squamous Cell Cancer will mainly occur on areas of sun exposed skin, such as the face, scalp, ears, neck, hands, shoulders and back.
- People with a fair skin complexion, blue or green eyes, blond or red hair.
- White people are more at risk, and also outdoor workers with constant exposure to sun.
- The use of immunosuppressant medication.
- An occupation or treatment requiring excessive exposure to x-rays.
- A recent illness with chronic skin ulcers from any type of cause.
- The cancer may spread to other parts of the body if it is not treated.
- This cancer must be treated again in only 10% of the cases.
- New sites of squamous cell cancer can occur, so prevention should be diligent.
- See your doctor with symptoms of squamous cell skin cancer.
- If a sore has not healed within 3 weeks of treatment.
- If any of the following occurs after treatment:
- Redness.
- Swelling.
- Bleeding.
- Tenderness.
- A medical history and physical exam will be taken.
- A biopsy (taking a small piece of tissue for examination) will be done.
- Surgical removal of the lesion with electrocautery and scraping may be done.