The single most important factor in producing squamous cell carcinomas of the skin is sun exposure. Sun damage takes many years to promote skin cancer. Several rather uncommon factors may predispose to squamous cell carcinoma. These include exposure to arsenic, hydrocarbons, heat, or x-rays. Some squamous cell carcinomas arise in scar tissue. Suppression of the immune system by infection or drugs may also promote such growths.

Symptoms

Diagnosis

This involves taking a sample by injecting a local anesthetic and punching out a small piece of skin using a circular punch blade. Usually the method used is referred to as a punch biopsy. The skin that is removed is then examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells.

Treatment:

Prevention:

The measures are similar to that adopted for basal cell carcinoma.