Basal cell cancers are sometimes hard to tell from benign skin conditions. For instance, occasionally they arise in unexposed skin, where they may mimic an ordinary mole, cyst, or pimple. They may be particularly difficult to distinguish from benign cysts when they occur near the eyes.
Outlook. Usually, basal cells are slow growing. They are rarely fatal. Most basal cell carcinomas need not be treated as an emergency, although late treatment can cause disfigurement, so they should be removed as early as possible.
The basal cell carcinomas that are most likely to spread are larger ones (more than 1 centimeter), scar-like BCCs, particularly those located on the cheek, and any BCC on the nose, neck, earlobe, eyelid, or temple.
Some studies are indicating that people with basal cell carcinoma may be at higher risk for second cancers, including melanoma, cancer of the lip, salivary glands, larynx, lung, breast, and kidney and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. Those at higher risk for such cancers appear to be men and anyone diagnosed before 60 with BCC.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Bowen's Disease
Characteristics. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) develops from keratinocytes, flat, scale-like skin cells that lie under the top layer of the epidermis. The majority of squamous cell carcinomas occur on sun-exposed areas, especially the forehead, temple, ears, neck, and back of the hands. People who have spent considerable time sunbathing may develop them on their lower legs. Their appearance changes with its stage:
- Squamous cell carcinoma in situ (often referred to as Bowen's disease). This is the earliest stage when the cancer is local and has not spread. Lesions are typically large reddish patches (often over one inch) that are scaly and crusted.
- Invasive squamous cell carcinoma. These are lesions that are highly likely to spread (metastasize). They enlarge either rapidly (over months) or slowly (over years). Eventually they become ulcerated.
 | Click the icon to see an image of squamous cell cancer. |
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