Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a type of skin cancer that arises from the outer skin layer. It may be caused by prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light (in sunlight, for example) or chemical carcinogens, or develop from solar keratoses. SCC commonly affects exposed areas of skin but may also affect the genitals.
It starts as an area of thickened skin and enlarges into a hard, painless lump resembling a wart. Untreated, SCC may spread and be fatal. If detected early, SCC can often be treated with surgery to remove the cancer, or sometimes with radiation therapy.
In advanced cases, chemotherapy may also be necessary. With early treatment, most people are cured.