Here's Where Squamous Cell Skin Cancer Most Often Appears

We all know too much sun is harmful for our skin and puts us at higher risk for cancer. What we may not realize is all skin cancers are not the same. Each has a unique appearance, common locations, prevalence, and more. Squamous cell carcinoma is one example.

At his private practice in Santa Monica, California, complex general surgical oncologist Dr. Trevan Fischer uses state-of-the-art surgical techniques for the best possible outcome in patients with various types of cancer, including squamous cell carcinoma. In addition, he stays up-to-date on the field's latest findings and procedures through his work on clinical trials at the Saint John's Cancer Institute.

Skin cancer Basics

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States and strikes 1 in 5 Americans by the time they are 70. The leading cause is harmful ultraviolet radiation from the sun and tanning beds.

Understanding squamous cell carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma accounts for about 2 of every 10 skin cancers. The others include basal cell carcinoma, melanoma, and Merkel cell carcinoma. Squamous cell carcinoma grows in the squamous cells found in the skin's middle and outer layers.

Location

Squamous cell carcinoma can appear anywhere on the body, but most often, it occurs in areas exposed to the sun. That means the scalp, face, ears, neck, and hands. However, it can also grow in other places, such as the inside of the mouth, the genitals, or the bottom of the feet. This phenomenon is more common in people with black and brown skin.

Appearance

Squamous cell carcinoma has a variety of appearances. Sometimes, it's a nodule or bump that could be red or the same color as the skin. It could also be a scaly sore or a sore that develops on a previous scar or sore.

Diagnosis and treatment

A diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma is made with a biopsy. If cancer is found, the abnormal cells and an area of skin around them are removed to ensure all the cancer has been eliminated. In some people, a sentinel lymph node biopsy ensures the cancer hasn't spread.

Prevention

Preventing skin cancer before it begins is optimal. Avoid UV rays from the sun by staying in the shade as well as wearing sunscreen and protective clothing. Tanning beds should not be used.

In addition, taking nicotinamide may decrease the incidence of non-melanoma skin cancers, such as squamous cell carcinoma. It can be found in fish, poultry, eggs, legumes, nuts, and cereal grains. There is also a water-soluble supplement version in the form of niacin or B3 that can be purchased over the counter. 

Whether you have noticed a bump, sore, or unusual blemish on your skin or have already been diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma, Dr. Fischer can help. Click to book an appointment or call the office today at 310-807-2688.