Skin cancers are the most common forms of cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most prevalent skin cancer with over 2 million cases diagnosed in the U. S. this year. The number one risk factor for Squamous Cell Carcinoma is UV exposure, either from the sun or from tanning beds. Other factors include fair skin and light eyes, a bad sunburn – especially one that blistered, skin that freckles instead of tanning, a family history of skin cancer, and a compromised immune system. The most common areas for SCC are those exposed repeatedly to the sun. This includes the ears, face, scalp, and arms.

Signs of SCC include a scaly or crusty bump or patch or an open sore that itches and bleeds then heals, and returns. Diagnosis is made by examining the skin using a dermascope and performing a biopsy on the suspicious area. Treatment options are determined by the type of skin cancer, where it’s located, how aggressive and which stage it is, and the patient’s overall health.

The most common treatment is micro-surgery to remove the lesion. This results in a 94-99 cure rate. Only 5 to 10 of Squamous Cell Carcinomas metastasize to regional lymph nodes or other sites. Other therapies include curettage and electrodessication, immunotherapy, cryotherapy, direct chemotherapy, general chemotherapy, and photodynamic therapy depending on the stage and location of the cancer.

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