Access information on common Skin cancer (squamous cell) questions at Consumer Reports Health.

Skin cancer (squamous cell)

Questions to ask your doctor

If you're worried about a crusted lump or flaky spot or patch on your skin, or if you've been told you have squamous cell skin cancer, you may want to talk with your doctor to find out more.

Here are some questions you might want to ask.

Do I have cancer or is the spot or patch on my skin harmless?
How can you tell what it is?
Will I need surgery to check whether it's cancer, and will I need to have all of it removed?
Will I need any other tests?
If so, what kinds of tests will I need?
What stage is my cancer?
Which treatment is best for me?
Will the treatment leave a scar or have other side effects?
What do you think is likely to happen to me?
Are people in my family at risk of getting this type of cancer?
What can I do to keep from getting this cancer again?

This information was last updated on Apr 14, 2009

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment.
© BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2009. All rights reserved.

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