Skin cancer that starts in the squamous cells is called squamous cell carcinoma of the skin. Melanoma, another type of skin cancer, happens in the pigment cells, called melanocytes. Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer caused by an overproduction of squamous cells in your epidermis, the top layer of your skin.

Understanding the Context

Exposing your skin to the sun’s UV rays puts you at a high risk of getting skin cancer. All cancers have to start somewhere. The term “squamous” just means these started on a surface lining of the body. Squamous cells line the surface of the skin, as well as the interior surfaces of the mouth.

Key Insights

This includes the tongue and throat. Squamous cell carcinomas: 8 things to know about the ‘cancer of the ... Squamous cell carcinoma is a common type of skin cancer that often looks like a scaly patch, dome-shaped growth, or sore. It tends to grow slowly, but sometimes growth is quick. SQUAMOUS definition: 1.

Final Thoughts

Squamous cells are flat cells that form the outer layer or layers of the skin or another surface…. Learn more. Squamous cells: These are flat cells in the upper (outer) part of the epidermis, which are constantly shed as new ones form. When these cells grow out of control, they can develop into squamous cell skin cancer (also called squamous cell carcinoma). One of three main types of cells in the top layer of the skin (the epidermis), squamous cells are flat cells located near the surface of the skin that shed continuously as new ones form. Squamous cell cancer is a type of cancer that typically affects the skin.

See pictures and learn about its prevention, causes, treatment, and more.