Question: Does Squamous Cancer lead to melanoma? Once squamous cancer cells have been found, what is the correct follow up and prognosis? The area was removed, but how soon should I have a follow up? What are things I should look for?
Answer: Squamous cell does not lead to melanoma because squamous is a completely different type of cell and skin cancer. You can have both types of skin cancer but not in the same exact spot. Followup should be in six months if you don't have any other suspicious skin lesions and once a year after this original follow up.
If the squamous cell was removed recently, watch the area closely for new redness or if the wound quits healing return to your dermatologist. Often in the area where a squamous has been removed the Dr will cauterize the skin which may look bad for a while but is not the same as a recurrence. A recurrence might happen 3-6 months or more after the original squamous was removed. If a dermatologist removed the original squamous and the squamous wasn't real large then you probably don't have anything to worry about from this same spot as the cure rate is quite high. You do need to always use a strong broad spectrum suntan lotion on this area from now on, no exceptions. Also, after you have had one squamous your chances for another squamous and all skin cancers in general is now significantly higher than in someone who has never had a skin cancer removed.
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/…
