What is the Difference Between Basal Cell Carcinoma and Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

Basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma are both types of non-melanoma skin cancer that affect different layers of the skin. They are relatively slow-growing and are often related to sun exposure. The main differences between basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma include:

Origin: Basal cell carcinoma begins in the basal skin layer, while squamous cell carcinoma starts in the upper region of the epidermis.
Appearance: Basal cell carcinoma most commonly appears as a pearly white, dome-shaped papule with prominent telangiectatic surface vessels, while squamous cell carcinoma most commonly appears as a firm, smooth, or hyperkeratotic papule or plaque, often with central ulceration.
Ultraviolet exposure: Basal cell carcinoma has a weaker association with ultraviolet exposure, with exposure in childhood and adolescence being more important. In contrast, squamous cell carcinoma has a stronger association with cumulative ultraviolet exposure.
Tumor location: Basal cell carcinoma most often occurs on the head and neck region, while squamous cell carcinoma is more common on the back of the hands and forearms.
Aggressiveness: Squamous cell carcinoma is generally more aggressive than basal cell carcinoma, particularly for people with compromised immune systems. Squamous cell carcinoma can also affect other areas of the body with mucous membranes, such as the inner lining of organs, mouth, lungs, and anus.
Treatment: Treatment options for both types of skin cancer are similar, but the choice of treatment may vary depending on the aggressiveness of the cancer and its location.

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Comparative Table: Basal Cell Carcinoma vs Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Here is a table comparing the differences between basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma:

Feature	Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC)	Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
Layer of skin affected	Basal cells in the lowest layer of the epidermis	Squamous cells in the top layer of the epidermis
Appearance	Often appears as a slightly transparent bump, but can also take other forms	Varies in appearance; may look like open sores or warts
Frequency	Accounts for about 80% of non-melanoma skin cancers	Accounts for about 20% of non-melanoma skin cancers
Aggressiveness	More common, less aggressive than SCC	More aggressive than BCC, especially in immunocompromised individuals
Growth rate	Relatively slow-growing	Relatively slow-growing, but more likely to spread than BCC
Risk factors	Light skin, light hair, brown or green eyes, numerous moles or freckles, weakened or dysfunctional immune system, photosensitivity	Similar risk factors as BCC, but more affected by persistent exposure to ultraviolet radiation, fair skin

Both BCC and SCC are non-melanoma skin cancers and are more likely to occur in people over 50 and of Caucasian descent. They are both relatively slow-growing, but early detection and treatment are essential to prevent metastasis and reduce the risk of life-threatening complications. It's crucial to consult a dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

Guilherme Mazui

Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.