Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

The Second Most Common Form of Skin Cancer

What causes SCC?

Chronic exposure to sunlight causes most cases of SCC. As is the case with BCC, the tumors appear most frequently on sun-exposed parts of the body. However, SCCs may occur on all areas of the body including the mucous membranes and can eventually penetrate the underlying tissues if left untreated. SCCs that metastasize (spread) most often arise on sites of chronic inflammatory skin conditions or on the mucous membranes or lips. SCCs may also occur where skin has suffered injuries such as burns, scars, long-standing sores and infections. The rim of the ear and the lower lip are especially vulnerable.

Who gets SCC?

People at highest risk have fair skin, blond or red hair and light eyes. SCC also strikes more than two-thirds of African Americans, a percentage usually preceded by pre-existing inflammatory skin conditions or burn injuries.

What are the four warning signs of SCC?

R                  A persistent, scaly red patch with irregular borders that sometimes crusts or bleeds

R                  An elevated growth with a central depression that may bleed and grow rapidly

R                  A wart-like growth that crusts and occasionally bleeds

R                  An open sore that bleeds, crusts and persists for weeks

	Examples of	Squamous Cell Carcinoma