Squamous cell carcinoma of the skin in Calabar

Abstract

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common malignancy of the skin. Risk factors advanced include exposure, to sunlight, radiation and chemicals, fair skin, reduced immunity, genetic syndromes, injury and inflammation. This study was undertaken to evaluate the site distribution, the role of these factors in squamous cell carcinoma seen in this environment and suggest measures for improved outcome. Twenty one histologically diagnosed patients were seen in the period of 5 years. This study showed two peak age groups in the 5^th and 7^th decades. In the 5^th decade limbs with chronic traumatic ulcer was leading affected site with a male preponderance while affected site with a male preponderance while in the 7^th decade the genital area was the commonly affected site with a female preponderance. Curiously the sites affected indicate the role of non-solar factors in this environment.

Nigerian Journal of Surgical Sciences Vol.16(1) 2006: 35-38