Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of carcinoma that develops from epithelial stem cells that grow unconrollably. It is one of the most common sub-types of cancer. These cells are found in tissues that grow to form a surface, primarily the skin, but also the digestive tract, lungs, urinary tract and reproductive tract. Such carcinomas are usually benign, but can mestatisize.
The symptoms of SCC depend on the location of the tumor. On the skin, it usually appears as a lesion or ulcer.
Several factors can put a patient at a higher risk of SCC, including human papilloma virus, exposure to sunlight, smoking, alcohol and schistosomiasis. Older people and males are at a higher risk.
Most SCC is removed with surgery, although in some cases they will respond to topical medication.