What should you know about early stage squamous cell skin cancer?

Cutaneous squamous cell cancer begins in squamous cells in the outer layers of skin. It can appear as a rough, scaly patch, a firm growth, or a sore that does not heal, but other skin conditions can look similar. A clinician examines the area and a biopsy confirms the diagnosis. The stage considers features such as depth, location, size and involvement of nearby structures.

Tumour removal surgery is commonly used to take out the lesion and a margin of surrounding skin. The method depends on the site, depth and visible borders; reconstruction may be discussed when removal leaves a larger defect. Radiotherapy can be an option when surgery is unsuitable or when the tumour has features that make local treatment more complex. Immunotherapy is reserved for selected situations. Regular skin checks help identify a new lesion or a change near the treated area.

Arrange prompt review for a sore that enlarges, bleeds repeatedly, becomes painful, develops a hard edge or fails to heal. Seek urgent help for uncontrolled bleeding, rapidly increasing swelling, fever after a procedure, or new weakness or numbness near the lesion. These signs need examination and do not establish the cause on their own.

Ask what the biopsy says about depth, differentiation and margins, and whether any nearby lymph nodes need assessment. Ask which treatment best fits the location, how the wound will heal, how sun protection should change, and how often your skin should be checked.