Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Skin

This topic details squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), a common malignant tumor of keratinocytes and the second most common skin cancer. Zambian university students will study its strong association with chronic UV radiation exposure, which causes cumulative DNA damage. Other predisposing factors include industrial carcinogens, chronic ulcers, old burn scars, immunosuppression, and genetic conditions like xeroderma pigmentosum. SCC often presents as a scaly, crusted, or ulcerated nodule or plaque on sun-exposed sites. Unlike basal cell carcinoma, SCC has a significant potential for local invasion and metastasis. Understanding its etiology and clinical presentation is vital for prevention, early diagnosis, and appropriate surgical management. This knowledge is key for dermatology, surgery, and oncology examinations and for managing non-melanoma skin cancers in clinical practice across Zambia.