X-appearance

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type of skin cancer. It occurs more often in men than in women at a 2:1 ratio. The incidence of squamous cell carcinoma among Caucasians in the US is .1-.15% per year. The incidence increases with age and the peak incidence of this skin cancer is at 66 years. The incidence also increases with decreasing latitudes such as the southern US and Australia.

Appearance of Squamous Cell Carcinoma
The skin change caused by squamous cell carcinoma most often looks like a scab. There may be a thick, adherent scale on a red, inflamed base. Normally a scab will significantly heal within 2 weeks. However, squamous cell carcinoma does not heal and may intermittently bleed. As it spreads into the dermis, this skin cancer can appear like an ulcer with hard, raised edges. The most common areas squamous cell carcinoma is found are in sun-exposed areas such as the back of the hand, scalp, lip, and upper portion of the ear.