After tumor removal, patients should be followed at least annually for 5 years for recurrence and for new lesions. Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cancers that arise from the malpighian cells of the epidermis and that have a modest propensity to metastasize. Squamous cell carcinoma may arise from actinic keratoses or Bowen's disease. Carcinomas arising in areas of chronic inflammation have the highest risk of metastasizing. Fair-skinned people, who have less melanin and thus less protection from the sun, have a higher incidence of squamous cell carcinoma, both solitary and multiple.
Tumors range histologically from well-differentiated to poorly differentiated.
Symptoms, Signs, and Diagnosis Lesions usually occur on sun-exposed areas of skin such as the face or dorsum of the hand. The earliest signs of squamous cell carcinoma are usually erythema and induration. The overlying epidermis may be scaly or hyperkeratotic. In more advanced lesions, ulceration usually occurs, often with crusting. Advanced lesions may become fixed to underlying tissue.