How is Squamous Cell Skin Cancer Diagnosed?
If you or your healthcare provider suspect you have squamous cell skin cancer, early detection and diagnosis are crucial for effective treatment. Diagnosing SCSC typically begins with a visit to a dermatologist, a doctor specialized in diagnosing and treating skin conditions, including various types of skin cancer.
What to Expect During Your Dermatologist Appointment for SCSC Diagnosis
When you visit a dermatologist for suspected squamous cell skin cancer, they will begin by reviewing your medical history and conducting a physical examination. The dermatologist will closely examine your skin, particularly any areas of concern, looking for unusual growths, sores that don’t heal, or scaly patches—common symptoms of SCSC. Based on this examination, the dermatologist will determine whether a biopsy is necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
Biopsy: The Gold Standard for Diagnosing Squamous Cell Skin Cancer
A biopsy is the gold standard for diagnosing squamous cell carcinoma, providing the most accurate and definitive results. If a biopsy is required, your dermatologist will remove a small sample from the suspicious area of your skin. To ensure minimal discomfort during the procedure, the area will be numbed using a local anesthetic.
Once the sample is collected, it will be sent to a laboratory where a pathologist or dermatopathologist—a doctor who specializes in examining skin tissue under a microscope—will carefully analyze the cells. This microscopic evaluation is essential for confirming whether the cells are cancerous and for determining the specific type of skin cancer.
What Happens After the Biopsy Results Come Back?
Once your healthcare provider receives the pathology report, they will discuss the findings with you. If the results confirm squamous cell carcinoma, your doctor will outline the next steps for treatment and follow-up care. These may include further biopsies, surgery, or other treatment options depending on the stage and location of the cancer. A full-body skin examination is often recommended to check for other suspicious spots, as SCSC can occur in multiple areas of the body.
Actinic Keratoses: A Precursor to Squamous Cell Skin Cancer
One of the most important factors in diagnosing SCSC is identifying precancerous lesions, such as actinic keratoses (AKs). These scaly, rough patches of skin often develop after long-term sun exposure and may eventually progress to squamous cell carcinoma if left untreated. People with actinic keratoses are at a higher risk for developing squamous cell skin cancer, making regular skin checks vital. Early detection of these precancerous areas allows for prompt treatment and removal, reducing the likelihood of the condition progressing to full-blown SCSC.
Ongoing Monitoring and Risk of Other Skin Cancers
Individuals who have been diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma are at a higher risk of developing other types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and melanoma. It is crucial to maintain regular check-ups with a dermatologist to monitor for new growths or changes in existing lesions. Your doctor may recommend more frequent skin exams and biopsies to detect any further skin cancers early.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor about a Biopsy
- How long will the biopsy take?
- Are there risks to performing this biopsy?
- Will I have stitches and if so, will I need to return to remove the stitches?
- Will the biopsy remove the lesion in its entirety?
- Should I have someone drive me to the biopsy appointment?
- Will I be left with a scar?
- What type of activity limitations will I have? For how long?
- How long will it take to receive my results?
- How should I care for the biopsy site after the procedure?
- Will the procedure be covered by insurance and what, if any, out-of-pocket expenses will there be?
Questions to Ask Your Doctor about Your Pathology Results
- How long will the biopsy take?
- Are there risks to performing this biopsy?
- Will I have stitches and if so, will I need to return to remove the stitches?
- Will the biopsy remove the lesion in its entirety?
- Should I have someone drive me to the biopsy appointment?
- Will I be left with a scar?
- What type of activity limitations will I have? For how long?
- How long will it take to receive my results?
- How should I care for the biopsy site after the procedure?
- Will the procedure be covered by insurance and what, if any, out-of-pocket expenses will there be?
How to Protect Yourself and Prevent Squamous Cell Skin Cancer
Prevention plays a vital role in reducing the risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma. Sun protection is key—use broad-spectrum sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and avoid prolonged exposure to UV rays, especially during peak hours. Regular self-exams of your skin, as well as professional exams by a dermatologist, can help detect any changes early and allow for timely intervention.
The Importance of Early Diagnosis and Regular Monitoring
Squamous cell skin cancer is highly treatable when detected early. By working closely with a dermatologist and taking proactive steps in prevention, you can significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer and other skin-related health issues. If you notice any unusual changes in your skin, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist immediately. The earlier SCSC is diagnosed, the better the outcomes. For more information or to find a dermatologist near you, visit our dermatologist locator tool to take the first step in protecting your skin health.
Early diagnosis, regular skin checks, and proper treatment are essential to managing squamous cell skin cancer and ensuring the best outcomes for your health and well-being.