dermatologic disorders
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Introduction
Squamous cell carcinoma is a malignant tumor of epidermal keratinocytes that invades the dermis; this cancer usually occurs in sun-exposed areas. Local destruction may be extensive, and metastases occur in advanced stages. Diagnosis is by biopsy. Treatment depends on the tumor’s characteristics and may involve curettage and electrodesiccation, surgical excision, cryosurgery, or, occasionally, radiation therapy. (See also Overview of Skin Cancer .) Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer after Basal Cell Carcinoma , with 1.8 million cases annually in the United States ( People with light skin are much more susceptible to squamous cell carcinoma than people with dark skin. 