Which statement best describes cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma?

Which statement best describes cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma?

• A. It is the most common skin cancer and arises from melanocytes; commonly on trunk.
• B. It is the second most common skin cancer and arises from keratinocytes; often preceded by actinic keratosis and HPV infection; commonly on lips, hands, neck and head.
• C. It is a benign lesion that requires no treatment.
• D. It is primarily on the scalp and always responds to topical steroids.

Answer: (B)

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma is a malignant proliferation of keratinocytes in the epidermis. It is the second most common skin cancer and tends to develop in sun-exposed areas such as the lips, hands, neck, and head. A common precursor is actinic keratosis, reflecting prior UV damage that can progress to invasive cancer. HPV infection can be a risk factor in some cases, particularly in certain individuals or sites. It is not a benign lesion, does not arise from melanocytes (that would be melanoma), and it does not typically respond to topical steroids.

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma is a malignant proliferation of keratinocytes in the epidermis. It is the second most common skin cancer and tends to develop in sun-exposed areas such as the lips, hands, neck, and head. A common precursor is actinic keratosis, reflecting prior UV damage that can progress to invasive cancer. HPV infection can be a risk factor in some cases, particularly in certain individuals or sites. It is not a benign lesion, does not arise from melanocytes (that would be melanoma), and it does not typically respond to topical steroids.