Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma is an abnormal group of cells that develops in the topmost layer of the skin.

Less common than basal cell carcinoma, it accounts for approximately 20 percent of all cases of nonmelanoma skin cancer.

About Squamous Cell Carcinoma

It often appears on the nose, forehead, lower lip and hands as a firm red bump or scaly red patch. Like basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell tumors tend to occur on areas of the skin that have been exposed to ultraviolet radiation, either from the sun or a tanning bed.

However, they may also occur on areas of the skin that have been exposed to chemicals or X-ray therapy or develop in areas of chronic inflammation or scars, such as ulcers and burns.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treatment

Our team of skin cancer doctors screen, diagnose and treat patients with or at risk for this type of cancer. Learn more about:

• Nonmelanoma Treatment
• Skin Cancer Risks and Causes
• Melanoma

Growth and Prognosis

Squamous cell carcinoma is more likely than basal cell carcinoma to spread to other areas of the body. This occurs 2 to 3 percent of the time.

Even so, the overall five-year survival rate for patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the skin is more than 95 percent.

For more information or to make an appointment with one of our specialists, call 667-214-1195.