Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) Newark
- Growth appears as flat and red, becoming scaly-raised mounds
- The most common form of non-melanoma cancer that can spread
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), while less common [700,000 diagnoses each year] is similar in its exposure pattern. Even though BCC and SCC mainly occur on areas of the skin frequently exposed to the sun, they can also occur anywhere on the body. Most squamous cell carcinomas are readily identified and easily removed. However, larger and more invasive lesions may require aggressive surgical management, radiation therapy, or both. There are 3,000 (only 0.4%) deaths per year attributed to these aggressive tumors. Similarly, local treatment with adequate removal is the key to treatment while minimizing scarring.
Special consideration: Actinic Keratosis
Actinic Keratosis (also called “solar keratosis”] and “senile keratosis”) is a precancerous lesion appearing as a thick, scaly, or crusty patch of skin. It is more common in fair-skinned people and it is associated with those who are frequently exposed to the sun, as it is usually accompanied by solar damage. They are considered as pre-cancerous, since there is a 10-15% they will progress to squamous cell carcinoma.