Ask the Doc

Elizabeth Anderson Responds:

I know you are concerned about your father. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common form of skin cancer. It is usually caused from chronic sun exposure. While SCC be locally invasive, it is seldom life-threatening. Fortunately, most SCCs of the skin are easily treated and cured with a simple skin surgery. Very early, or in situ, carcinomas, may even be treated with a topical chemotherapy cream. Less than 5% of squamous cell carcinomas have an aggressive course. After being diagnosed with a skin cancer, it is important for your father to continue to monitor his skin, have routine skin checks, and protect his skin from the sun. I look forward to meeting him next week. While it is not necessary that he have someone accompany him to the office, many patients appreciate having someone come with them for reassurance and to help them with questions.

-Dr. Anderson

Answer Published on 10/7/2009 at 8:53 PM