This is a squamous cell carcinoma until proven otherwise. Development of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the skin is associated with excessive sunlight exposure, exposure to chemical carcinogens such as coal tar products, chronic irritation, and in patients with immunosuppression. There is an increased frequency in persons with non-pigmented skin. Approximately 55% of SCCs develop on the face and neck, with another 25% occurring on the hands and arms.

If SCC is suspected, this requires an urgent specialist dermatology referral to be seen within two weeks.

References

• Suspected Cancer: recognition and referral (NG 12, 2015, updated 2021); Skin cancers - recognition and referral (CKS) / Cancer of the skin (NHS Choices)

• Squamous cell carcinoma (PCDS)