What is Squamous Cell Skin Cancer?
Squamous cell skin cancer (SCSC) generally develops from cumulative lifetime exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and damage to the skin. It is the second most common type of skin cancer diagnosed in the United States, after basal cell carcinoma.
The outer layer of the skin, called the epidermis, is primarily made up of basal cells, squamous cells, and melanocytes. Squamous cells are thin, flat cells located near the surface of the skin. As part of the skin’s normal renewal process, older squamous cells are continuously shed and replaced by new cells.
When squamous cells grow uncontrollably and become cancerous, they form squamous cell skin cancer. This type of skin cancer usually grows slowly and most often develops on areas of the body frequently exposed to the sun, such as the scalp, ears, face, neck, and backs of the hands. Squamous cell skin cancer may appear as a sore that does not heal, a rough or scaly red patch, or a raised growth on the skin.
Although many squamous cell skin cancers are highly treatable when found early, some cases can become advanced or spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body. Treatment for advanced squamous cell carcinoma may include surgery, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, or other systemic therapies.
Understanding Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma (CSCC)
Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) is the second most common form of skin cancer. It develops in the squamous cells that make up the outer layer of the skin and most often appears on areas that receive significant sun exposure, including the face, ears, scalp and backs of the hands.
Knowing what CSCC can look like—and understanding your individual risk factors—can help with earlier detection. Signs may include a sore that does not heal or a red, scaly patch that grows or changes. Because CSCC can take different forms, any new, changing or persistent spot on the skin should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
This video provides an introduction to CSCC, including how it develops, common risk factors and signs to watch for. It also explains actinic keratoses, rough or scaly areas caused by long-term sun exposure that are considered precancerous and can sometimes develop into squamous cell carcinoma.
When detected early, CSCC is highly treatable. Regular skin self-exams, attention to changes in your skin and routine care with a dermatologist can all play an important role in early detection.
In This Video
You’ll learn:
• What cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC) is
• Where CSCC commonly develops
• Risk factors, including UV exposure and indoor tanning
• Signs and symptoms to watch for
• What actinic keratoses are and their connection to CSCC
• Why skin exams and ongoing monitoring are important
Nomenclature: Squamous cell skin cancer vs. cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma
NOTE: On this website, we use the term squamous cell skin cancer (or the abbreviation SCSC) to clarify we are talking about squamous cell carcinoma as it occurs on the skin. Squamous cells line tissues inside and
outside of the body, so squamous cell carcinomas can develop in other parts of the body, outside of the
skin and unrelated to ultraviolet light exposure, including in the lung, anus, and mouth. You might also
recognize the term cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma—another way of describing squamous cell skin
cancer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Squamous Cell Skin Cancer
What does squamous cell skin cancer look like?
Squamous cell skin cancer can look different from person to person. It may appear as a sore that doesn’t heal, a rough or scaly red patch, or a raised growth on the skin. Any spot that is new, changing, growing or not healing should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Is squamous cell skin cancer serious? Can it spread?
Many squamous cell skin cancers are highly treatable when found early. However, some can become advanced and spread to nearby lymph nodes or other parts of the body. That’s why it’s important to have a suspicious or changing area of skin evaluated promptly.
Is squamous cell skin cancer curable?
Squamous cell skin cancer is highly treatable when detected early. Treatment depends on factors such as the size and location of the cancer and whether it has spread. Early detection and appropriate treatment are important.
I’ve been diagnosed with squamous cell skin cancer. What now?
Talk with your healthcare provider about your treatment and follow-up plan. After treatment, continue to check your skin regularly and keep your recommended skin exams. Pay attention to any new, changing or persistent spots and let your healthcare provider know about anything concerning.
Where can I find a skin cancer specialist/dermatologist?
Visit our specialist database to find a doctor experienced in treating skin cancer.
