Question:
I have had two basel cell carcinomas removed in the last 5 years. We caught
them very early and it was no big problem. I have something growing on my
shoulder. I am going to the dermatologist next week to have it checked out.
I am not clear on how to tell the difference between basel cell and squamous
cell. The pictures I have seen look almost the same.
This thing is an oval shaped reddish brown raised area about 1/8 inch
diameter. It has some flaky skin on it. At first I thought it was
psoriasis, which I also have, because of the flaking. I put some strong
cortisone ointment on it that would make psoriasis go away. The flaky skin
went away, but underneath it was the oval shaped redish brown raised.
I will know for sure after the dermatologist looks at it, but from what I
describe, would you guess basel cell or squamous cell or something else.
Also, what are the ways that you tell basel cell from squamous cell just by
looking ?
Answer:
Hello Tom,
I've read and re-read your post numerous times. (as perhaps others have too).
I'm really not into guessing, esp since you've already noted that the basal and
squamous can look similar.
I think we're all waiting for the biopsy report and/or opionin of the
dermatologist.
