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Skin Cancer Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the skin is the second most common type of skin cancer. It arises from epidermal keratinocytes of the epidermis and oral mucosa. Unlike basal-cell carcinomas, cutaneous squamous-cell carcinomas are associated with a substantial risk of metastasis.

SCC is found most commonly in sun-exposed areas, but also can be found in non-sun exposed areas, such as the genitalia, oral mucosa, and in areas of chronic trauma or inflammation. Besides ultraviolet light, squamous cell carcinoma may be associated with arsenic exposure, tobacco, chemicals and human papilloma virus infection.

Histology Because early squamous cell carcinomas may resemble actinic keratoses or Bowen’s disease, all lesions suspected of being squamous cell carcinomas should be biopsied to confirm invasion into the dermis. Tumors are graded as well or poorly differentiated and on the presence of neural invasion.