Understanding Squamous Cell Cancer

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Questions and Answers

Which area is least likely to develop squamous cell cancer?

Sole of the foot (correct)

Back of the hands

Top of the nose

Forehead

Squamous cell cancer has a slower growth rate compared to basal cell cancer.

False

What is a common factor that contributes to the development of squamous cell cancer?

UV rays exposure

Squamous cell cancer may arise on skin that has been ________ or has chronic inflammation.

burned Signup and view all the answers

Match the following terms related to squamous cell cancer with their descriptions:

Aggressive = Faster growth rate and potential for metastasis Metastasis = Spread of cancer to other parts of the body UV rays = Major risk factor for skin cancers Mucous membranes = Another location where squamous cell cancer can develop Signup and view all the answers

What is a common feature of squamous cell cancer tumors?

They often produce keratin pearls. Signup and view all the answers

Squamous cell cancer typically begins as a large, painful ulcer.

False Signup and view all the answers

What happens to keratin formation as the squamous cell cancer tumor grows?

Keratin formation diminishes. Signup and view all the answers

As the tumor extends into surrounding tissue, the area around the nodule becomes __________.

indurated Signup and view all the answers

Match the following characteristics with their corresponding description related to squamous cell cancer:

Nodule = Firm, red growth that may ulcerate Keratin pearls = Concentrated areas of keratinization Induration = Hardened tissue surrounding the tumor Mitosis = Increase in tumor cell division rate Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary route for metastasis in invasive squamous cell cancer?

Lymphatics Signup and view all the answers

Intraepidermal squamous cell cancer cannot extend into the dermis.

True Signup and view all the answers

What are the two common preexisting skin lesions from which invasive squamous cell cancer may arise?

Scars and actinic keratosis Signup and view all the answers

The size and depth of penetration of a tumor influence the risk of ________ in squamous cell cancer.

metastasis Signup and view all the answers

Match the following features of invasive squamous cell cancer with their descriptions:

Erythematous plaque = A characteristic appearance of invasive squamous cell cancer Well-defined borders = Indicates clear differentiation from surrounding skin Invasive nature = Increases the risk of metastasis Metastasis via lymphatics = The primary method for cancer spread Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Squamous Cell Cancer

Squamous cell cancer is a type of skin cancer that originates in the squamous epithelium, a type of tissue that forms the outer layer of skin and mucous membranes.
It primarily affects areas exposed to UV radiation, like the forehead, ear helix, nose tip, lower lip, and back of hands.
Squamous cell cancer can also develop on skin that has been burned or chronically inflamed.
In comparison to basal cell cancer, squamous cell cancer is more aggressive, grows faster, and has a higher risk of spreading to other parts of the body if left untreated.

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma arises from the proliferation of keratinizing cells in the squamous epithelium.
The tumor initially fills the epidermis and invades the dermis.
The tumor is characterized by keratinization, often forming keratin "pearls."
As the tumor grows, keratinization diminishes.
Tumor cells increase in number and mitotic rate, leading to irregular shapes.
Squamous cell carcinoma begins as a small, firm, red nodule, often crusted with keratin.
As it grows, the tumor can ulcerate, bleed, and become painful.
The tumor extends into surrounding tissue, forming a nodule with an indurated (hardened) surrounding area.

Recurrent Squamous Cell Cancer

Recurrent squamous cell cancer can become invasive, increasing the risk of metastasis, meaning the cancer can spread to other parts of the body
Invasive squamous cell cancer can develop from pre-existing skin lesions like scars and actinic keratosis
The cancer can extend into the dermis, which is a type of skin cancer called intraepidermal squamous cell cancer
Intraepidermal squamous cell cancer appears as a slightly raised, red patch with clear borders
Metastasis most often occurs via the lymphatic system (the network of vessels that carry fluid throughout the body)
The risk of metastasis is dependent on the size and depth of the tumor

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Description

This quiz explores squamous cell cancer, a significant skin cancer type arising from the squamous epithelium. It covers its origins, risk factors, aggressive nature, and differences from basal cell cancer. Test your knowledge about prevention and treatment options.