Keratinocyte cancer signs & symptoms
What are the symptoms of keratinocyte cancer?
Keratinocyte cancer (KC), also known as non-melanoma skin cancer, mainly includes two common forms of skin cancer: basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Both tend to appear on parts of the body that receive frequent sun exposure, such as the face, ears, scalp, neck and hands, though they can develop anywhere on the skin.
Early diagnosis of keratinocyte cancer is essential, so it is important to pay attention to possible early signs and symptoms. KC often develops slowly and may initially resemble minor skin changes, making it easy to overlook. By becoming familiar with the patterns and features linked with BCC and SCC, individuals can seek medical review sooner, helping improve treatment outcomes.
Signs of basal cell carcinoma (BCC)
Sores that do not heal
A persistent sore that remains open, forms a crust or bleeds at intervals should raise concern. If it appears to heal and then re-opens repeatedly, especially on sun-exposed skin, it may signal BCC.
Freckles or moles
Although less common, BCC can appear as a pigmented mark, especially in darker or mixed skin tones. Any change in colour, size or texture of a pigmented lesion warrants medical review.
Ulcers
Some BCCs form shallow ulcers with a smooth or shiny surface. These often have slightly raised edges and tend to occur on the face, ears or scalp.
Yellow or white areas similar to scars
In some cases, BCC appears as a pale, tight or waxy patch that resembles a scar. As this type does not always stand out sharply from surrounding skin, it may go unnoticed without close examination.
Lumps
BCC may appear as a firm, dome-shaped bump with a pearly or waxy look. In lighter skin, these lumps may seem pink or translucent. In some cases, it may even be possible to see tiny blood vessels on the surface.
Pink growths with raised edges
A pink growth with a raised border and a small central dip or indentation is another recognized pattern. The surface may form a crust or develop small blood vessels.
Red patches
Flat or mildly raised red areas that remain dry, flaky or slightly scaly may represent an early form of BCC. These patches often develop slowly and can be mistaken for eczema or atopic dermatitis.
Hyperpigmentation of skin
Another sign to look for is areas of the skin that may suddenly seem darker than usual.
Symptoms of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)
Sores
SCC may begin as a sore that fails to heal or returns repeatedly in the same location. It may crust, bleed or feel tender.
Rough or scaly red patches
These patches often develop on sun-exposed areas such as the face, lips, ears, hands and lower legs. They tend to feel dry, thickened or scaly and may become itchy or tender.
Raised lumps that indent in the centre
Some SCCs form firm, raised lumps with a central indentation or ulcer. The top may become crusty, and the surrounding area may feel hardened.
Growths similar to warts
SCC can resemble a wart, presenting as a rough, thickened growth or a keratinized bump. These may appear on damaged or scarred skin.
Sores that feel crusty or bleed easily
If a patch or bump repeatedly forms a crust, bleeds when lightly touched or does not improve over several weeks, it may suggest SCC rather than a benign skin condition.
How to begin looking for signs of keratinocyte cancer?
Regular self-examination helps detect changes early. Choose a well-lit room and use both a full-length mirror and a handheld one to check hard-to-reach areas.
Inspect the skin methodically from head to toe, including the scalp, behind the ears, under the arms, between the toes and the soles of the feet.
Focus on new growths, spots that change in shape or colour, persistent patches that crust or bleed, or any lesion that feels firmer or thicker than surrounding skin. People with higher risk due to previous skin cancer, significant sun exposure, chronic skin damage or weakened immunity, should consider more frequent checks and periodic review with a dermatologist.
A lesion that does not improve after three to four weeks, or continues to change, should be assessed by a healthcare professional.
What to do if you suspect a keratinocyte cancer?
If you notice a skin change that concerns you, arrange an appointment with your GP or dermatologist promptly. Try to note when the lesion appeared, whether it has grown or changed, and any symptoms such as itching, pain, crusting or bleeding.
During your consultation, the clinician will examine the affected area, ask about your medical and sun-exposure history and assess whether it is necessary to refer you to a skin specialist.
If a suspicious lesion is identified, a biopsy may be performed to confirm diagnosis. This small procedure involves removing a sample of the tissue for laboratory analysis.
Although receiving a diagnosis can feel daunting, it is important to remember that keratinocyte cancers are highly treatable, especially when identified promptly.
References
- NHS. Symptoms of non-melanoma skin cancer [Internet]. [cited 2025 Nov 21]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/non-melanoma-skin-cancer/symptoms/
- Mayo Clinic. Non-melanoma skin cancer: Symptoms & causes [Internet]. [cited 2025 Nov 21]. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nonmelanoma-skin-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20355397
- Cancer Society of Canada. Signs and symptoms – non-melanoma skin cancer [Internet]. [cited 2025 Nov 21]. Available from: https://cancer.ca/en/cancer-information/cancer-types/skin-non-melanoma/signs-and-symptoms
- Cancer Research UK. Skin cancer symptoms [Internet]. [cited 2025 Nov 21]. Available from: https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/skin-cancer/symptoms