Question: What Is Squamous Cell Skin Cancer?
Answer: Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a type of cancer that begins in the squamous layer of the skin. It accounts for 16% to 20% of skin cancer cases and occurs twice as often in men than in women. Approximately 200,000 to 300,000 people are diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma each year in the United States, and about 2,500 die from the disease. It usually appears on the face, ear, neck, lips, and backs of the hands. SCC can also begin within scars or skin ulcers on other places on the body. As with basal cell carcinoma, the available treatments are very effective if the tumor is detected while it is small and thin. However, if left untreated it can spread locally and cause disfigurement or even fatal complications.
Source:
"Squamous Cell Carcinoma." The Skin Cancer Foundation. 13 April 2009.
