What is squamous cell carcinoma?

➢ Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma is mainly caused by UV light exposure, which leads to widespread DNA damage and extremely high mutational loads ➢ Patients with the rare disorder xeroderma pigmentosum, which disrupts repair of UV-induced DNA damage, are at an exceptionally high risk. ➢ Immunosuppression, particularly in organ transplant recipients, is associated with an increased incidence of cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas that are likely to be associated with HPV infection. ➢ Other predisposing factors include industrial carcinogens (tars and oils), chronic nonhealing ulcers, old burn scars, ingestion of arsenicals, and ionizing radiation.