Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma is a cancer arising from squamous cells in the outer layer of skin. It commonly develops on areas exposed to sunlight, although it can occur elsewhere. Squamous cell carcinoma is a skin cancer that begins in squamous cells and often appears as a persistent rough, scaly or sore area.

A sore that will not heal is a common presentation of squamous cell carcinoma. A skin ulcer is another possible presentation. The area may be a firm bump, a rough patch, a scaly growth, a crusted sore or a spot that bleeds after minor contact. It can be tender, itchy or surrounded by inflamed skin. Changes that continue or enlarge deserve a dermatology assessment.

The cancer begins when accumulated damage changes the behaviour of squamous cells. Ultraviolet radiation from sunlight or tanning devices is a major source of this damage. Long-standing inflammation, scars or wounds can also create an environment in which abnormal cells develop. A clinician considers the appearance, location and history of a lesion rather than relying on appearance alone.

Some lesions grow gradually while others become thicker, more tender or more easily irritated. Untreated disease can extend into nearby tissue and, in some cases, spread beyond the original site. The outlook depends on factors such as size, depth, location, cell features and whether treatment removed all abnormal tissue. Early assessment helps define the safest treatment plan.

Risk is shaped by cumulative ultraviolet exposure, repeated sunburn, outdoor work, tanning-device use, fair or sun-sensitive skin, older age, previous skin cancers and reduced immune protection. A chronic wound, burn scar or inflamed area can also be relevant. People of every skin tone can develop this cancer, including on less sun-exposed skin.

A dermatologist examines the lesion and nearby skin, often using a dermatoscope to see structures below the surface. A biopsy is usually needed to confirm the diagnosis: a small sample is removed and examined by a specialist. The result can describe the tumour type and features that guide treatment. Nearby lymph nodes or other tests may be considered when the examination suggests deeper or more extensive disease.

Treatment is selected according to the lesion’s size, depth, site, borders and risk features, as well as your general health. Surgical excision removes the growth with a planned margin, while Mohs surgery checks tissue during the procedure to conserve healthy skin when precise margin control matters. Other skin cancer surgery approaches may be discussed. Your dermatologist explains wound care, scar expectations and whether follow-up is needed.

Keep the treated area clean and follow the wound instructions supplied by your team. A scar may change in colour and texture as it matures. Check your skin regularly in good light, including scars and areas that are difficult to see with a mirror. Record new or changing spots so you can describe when they began and how they have changed.

The lesion may ulcerate, bleed, become painful or invade nearby tissue. Treatment can leave a scar, temporary swelling, altered sensation or a need for reconstruction, depending on the site and depth. A lesion that returns after treatment needs prompt review. Contact your care team about increasing redness, drainage, fever, uncontrolled bleeding or a wound that is opening.

Use shade, protective clothing and a broad-spectrum sunscreen on exposed skin. Reapply sunscreen as directed, especially after sweating or swimming. Avoid tanning devices and seek shade during the strongest sunlight. Regular self-checks and scheduled dermatology reviews can help identify a new lesion or a change in a treated area sooner.

A dermatologist can assess a persistent sore, rough patch or changing growth and arrange a biopsy when needed. For confirmed disease, ask whether the clinician routinely manages skin cancers and whether surgical or Mohs expertise is available for the lesion’s location. Bring a list of medicines, immune conditions, prior skin cancers and any photographs showing change over time.