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squamous cell carcinomas of the skin

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January 5th, 2009
My grandfather has a wound on his face that has been there for almost 12 years already. It started with an itchy mole and he thought it might be fungi so he put sulfur acid to burn it. Then, the wound didnt heal. But it has a crust. Some part of it has wounds but the crust is still there. It is getting deeper and bigger.

Can this be skin caner? Do we need to go directly to an oncologist to get this tested or should we go to a dermatologist instead?

An opinion from a friend doctor says that she is 70% certain that this is skin cancer.


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replied January 6th, 2009
Skin Cancer Answer A5250
Based upon your description, I too am concerned that this may be a squamous cell carcinoma of the skin or, given that a "mole" was initially present, melanoma is a possibility; although most melanomas, if left untreated for 12 years, would likely have spread extensively by now (basal cell carcinoma is also a possibility). He should see either a dermatologist or an ENT surgeon, and have this lesion biopsied without further delay.

Sincerely,

Robert A. Wascher, MD, FACS
A landmark, evidence-based guide to a healthy cancer-prevention lifestyle, based on cutting-edge cancer research.
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