Are Basal Cell and Squamous Cell Carcinomas More Common Than You Think?
Published: May 31, 2024
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) are the most common non-melanoma skin cancers. Despite their prevalence, they are rarely fatal and can often be treated effectively.
Contents
Understanding Non-Melanoma Skin Cancers
BCC and SCC together make up the most common form of skin cancer among non-Hispanic White Americans. These cancers are frequently diagnosed, but exact numbers are hard to pin down because many cases are treated outside of a hospital setting. Despite their common occurrence, these cancers are rarely life-threatening and account for less than 0.1% of cancer deaths.
Why Are These Cancers Rarely Fatal?
BCC is usually not life-threatening, while SCC can be more aggressive biologically. If neglected, SCC can become dangerous through local spread or metastasis. However, most cases can be managed with simple procedures like cryotherapy or surgical excision.
When Is Systemic Therapy Needed?
Systemic therapy is reserved for cases where the cancer has spread distantly or is too advanced for local treatments like surgery or radiation. For advanced cases of BCC and SCC that are not manageable with local therapies, systemic treatments may be an option.
Frequently Asked Questions
They are the most common type of cancer in non-Hispanic White Americans.
Rarely, they account for less than 0.1% of cancer deaths.
Simple procedures like cryotherapy and surgical excision are often used.
When the cancer has spread or is too advanced for local treatments.
Key Takeaways
While common, BCC and SCC are rarely fatal and often treatable with simple procedures.
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References
Skin Cancer Treatment–Health Professional Version. NIH National Cancer Institute. https://www.cancer.gov/types/skin/hp/skin-treatment-pdq
Chapalain M, et al. Stage IV cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma: treatment outcomes in a series of 42 patients. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2020; 34:1202.
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