Squamous Cell Cancer
Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common form of skin cancer. More than 700,000 people are diagnosed every year. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the uncontrollable growth of abnormal cells in the skin’s upper layers — the epidermis. They generally affect exposed areas of the body, like the scalp, neck and hands.
The disease is primarily caused by exposure to ultraviolet light over the course of a lifetime. Prolonged exposure to the sun and tanning beds increases the risks of developing SCC.
What are Squamous Cell Cancer Symptoms?
As with any skin cancer, a variety of symptoms can be present. Most of these symptoms occur on the sun-exposed portion of your skin, like your head, neck, ears and hands. Though, they can appear anywhere on the body.
Some symptoms include hard, red bumps, sores with a scab or crust, a new sore or raised area and a rough, scabrous patch on the lip that may eventually turn into an open sore. Often times, these sores are painful to the touch and get worse over time.
Your skin health is nothing to take lightly. If you have any questions or concerns about new, unusual or changing skin, contact Skin & Cancer Center of Scottsdale at (480) 596-1110.