Squamous Cell Carcinoma

The second most common type of skin cancer

Medically reviewed by Dr. Steven Q. Wang, MDLast reviewed

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What is Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common form of skin cancer. It arises from the squamous cells that make up the middle and outer layers of the skin. While usually not life-threatening, SCC can grow large or spread to other parts of the body if not treated, causing serious complications.

Most SCCs can be cured if detected and treated early. SCC typically appears on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, neck, lips, and backs of the hands.

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See Clinical & Dermoscopy Images

Browse biopsy-proven photos of real SCC cases, paired with matching dermoscopy images.

Key Topics

Explore these essential topics to better understand your squamous cell carcinoma diagnosis and treatment:

What are the early signs of squamous cell carcinoma and how is it different from other skin cancers?
Recognizing SCC characteristics and distinguishing it from BCC and melanoma
How do doctors grade or stage an SCC and why does that matter for treatment?
Understanding staging systems and how they guide treatment decisions
What are the main treatment approaches for SCC, and what are the pros and cons of each?
Comparing surgical and non-surgical options to find the best approach
What follow-up care is required after SCC treatment?
Monitoring schedules, skin checks, and long-term surveillance plans
What increases the risk of SCC coming back or spreading to lymph nodes or other organs?
Understanding high-risk features and metastasis potential
How do I perform regular skin checks for SCC and what changes should alert me?
Self-examination techniques and warning signs requiring immediate attention
Are there special considerations for SCC in high-risk areas (ears, lips, fingers)?
Why location matters and specialized treatment approaches for challenging areas
What prevention steps and skin-care practices reduce my chance of getting another SCC?
Daily habits and lifestyle strategies for long-term prevention
What if my SCC is advanced, high-risk, or has spread?
Locally advanced and metastatic cutaneous SCC — diagnosis and systemic treatment options

Warning Signs

SCC may appear as:

  • •A persistent, scaly red patch with irregular borders that may bleed
  • •An elevated growth with a central depression that occasionally bleeds
  • •A wart-like growth that crusts and occasionally bleeds
  • •An open sore that persists for weeks
  • •A raised growth with a rough surface that is firm to the touch

Risk Factors

  • •Cumulative sun exposure over a lifetime
  • •Fair skin, light hair, and blue or green eyes
  • •Use of tanning beds
  • •History of precancerous lesions (actinic keratoses)
  • •Previous skin cancer
  • •Weakened immune system
  • •Chronic skin inflammation or injury

Prevention

  • •Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily
  • •Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours when outdoors
  • •Wear sun-protective clothing and hats
  • •Avoid peak sun hours (10am-4pm)
  • •Never use tanning beds
  • •Examine your skin monthly
  • •See a dermatologist annually

Treatment Options

Several effective treatments are available for SCC, depending on the size, location, and aggressiveness of the tumor:

  • •Excisional surgery: Cutting out the tumor with a margin of normal skin
  • •Mohs surgery: Removing the tumor layer by layer for maximum preservation of healthy tissue
  • •Curettage and electrodesiccation: Scraping away the cancer and using electricity to destroy remaining cells
  • •Cryosurgery: Freezing the tumor with liquid nitrogen
  • •Radiation therapy: For patients who cannot undergo surgery
  • •Topical medications: For superficial SCCs
  • •Immunotherapy or targeted therapy: For advanced cases

Printable Discussion Guide

Every question from the topics above, collected into one printable checklist — with a checkbox and space for notes beside each, and header fields for your appointment date and doctor's name.

Download the complete squamous cell carcinoma discussion guide (PDF)

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