The two most common types of skin cancer are basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma. Basal cell carcinoma most often affects people with fair skin. It is sometimes characterized by a skin-colored or pink bump that appears on the head, neck, and arms. If left untreated, this can grow into the surrounding skin and tissues. Squamous cell carcinoma often looks like a sore. It tends to feel like a firm bump or scaly patch. These commonly appear on the ears, face, neck, arms, chest, and back. This can start to spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. If you find any growths on your skin, come into Essential Dermatology to get checked out by our board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Krathen.
What Causes Basal and Squamous Cell Carcinoma?
Exposure to ultraviolet rays (UV) from the sun or from tanning beds causes skin cancer. This happens because exposure to these rays causes damage to DNA in the skin cells. This is a foundation for them to mutate and grow rapidly, which forms tumors and growths. Some chemicals can cause skin cancer from frequent exposure. Skin cancer tends to affect certain demographics more, such as people with fair skin, but it is also congenital. If a family member has had skin cancer, then you are more likely to get it in your lifetime.
Symptoms of Basal and Squamous Cell Carcinoma
- New growth on the skin
- Pigmented areas that change, grow, or look abnormal
- A growth that bleeds or scabs
Treatments for Basal and Squamous Cell Carcinoma
During a screening with Dr. Krathen, he will want to examine your skin and search for any abnormalities. If an abnormality is found, he may want to do a biopsy to see if it is cancerous. Once he diagnoses the growth and understands how far it has spread, treatment can begin. There are various types of methods to treat these cancers. Most often, surgical excision is used to remove the affected area. He can perform Mohs Surgery when the cancer is on a highly visible area like the face or the cancer is especially aggressive. Other methods are cryotherapy, radiation therapy, electrodesiccation, and topical medications. Dr. Krathen will find the right solution for you based on your symptoms and concerns. He may also suggest some lifestyle changes to prevent cancer from forming again.
Basal & Squamous Cell Carcinoma FAQs
What is the difference between basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma?
Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are both common forms of skin cancer, but they develop from different types of skin cells. Basal cell carcinoma tends to grow slowly and is less likely to spread to other parts of the body. Squamous cell carcinoma can be more aggressive and may spread if left untreated. Both conditions benefit from early diagnosis and treatment, which is why any suspicious skin lesion should be evaluated by a dermatologist.
Can skin cancer look like a pimple that won’t heal?
Yes. One of the most common warning signs of basal or squamous cell carcinoma is a spot that persists for weeks or months without healing. It may resemble a pimple, a sore, a scab, or an irritated patch of skin. Some lesions repeatedly bleed, crust over, and then seem to improve before returning again. Any growth that does not heal normally should be examined by a board-certified dermatologist such as Dr. Michael Krathen.
Can younger adults develop basal or squamous cell carcinoma?
Although these skin cancers are more common in older adults due to cumulative sun exposure, younger individuals can develop them as well. Frequent tanning bed use, significant sun exposure, fair skin, and a family history of skin cancer can increase risk at a younger age. Skin cancer is not exclusively a condition of older adults, making routine skin awareness important for all age groups.
How is skin cancer diagnosed during a dermatology visit?
During an examination, Dr. Krathen carefully evaluates the appearance, size, texture, and location of suspicious lesions. If a growth appears concerning, a biopsy may be recommended. The biopsy allows a pathology laboratory to determine whether cancer cells are present and identify the specific type of skin cancer. This information is essential for selecting the most effective treatment plan.
What is Mohs surgery, and when is it recommended?
Mohs surgery is a specialized technique that removes skin cancer layer by layer while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. It is frequently advised for cancers situated in areas that are cosmetically sensitive, including the face, ears, nose, lips, or scalp. Mohs surgery may also be used for larger, recurrent, or aggressive tumors. Because tissue is examined during the procedure, it offers very high cure rates while minimizing unnecessary tissue removal.
Will I be at risk for another skin cancer after treatment?
Yes. Individuals who have been diagnosed with basal cell carcinoma or squamous cell carcinoma have an increased likelihood of developing additional skin cancers in the future. This does not mean another cancer will definitely occur, but ongoing surveillance is important. Regular skin examinations, sun protection habits, and prompt evaluation of new lesions can help identify concerns early when treatment is often simpler and more effective.
How often should I have professional skin cancer screenings?
The ideal screening schedule depends on your personal history, risk factors, and previous skin cancer diagnoses. Patients with a history of skin cancer often require more frequent examinations than those without prior concerns. During your consultation, Dr. Krathen can recommend an appropriate follow-up schedule based on your individual risk profile. Regular screenings are among the most effective ways to detect suspicious lesions early, monitor existing skin changes, and reduce the likelihood that skin cancers progress before treatment can begin.
Schedule a Consultation
To prevent skin cancer, you should protect your skin from the suns rays and make sure to get regular screenings from a dermatologist. To get started, call our office at (508) 545-9713 or request a consultation by filling out our online form. To book an appointment, schedule your visit as a new patient using our online scheduler or as an existing patient using the Mass General Brigham Patient Gateway.
