What are squamous cells?

Hello Anon

Thank you for writing.

The name “squamous” comes from the cells where the cancer grows. These cells are in the uppermost layer of skin cells. Squamous cell carcinoma usually grows slowly. In some cases it can grow fast and spread to other tissues in the body, usually initially through lymph nodes. It is rarely fatal if treated early, but can be lethal if it spreads beyond the skin.

These cells can be found all over the body on the skin or internally, in hollow organs. They can be also be found in tracts of the body - including the digestive tract.

Best,
Susan