Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)

Squamous cell carcinoma is the second, most common cancer arising from keratinocytes, in the outer layer of the skin or mucosal surfaces or from actinic keratosis lesions.
As with AK, squamous cell carcinomas typically occur on sun-exposed areas, and are most commonly found on the head, neck, or hands of elderly patients. SCC can occur on the lips, inside the mouth, on the genitalia, or anywhere on the body. SCC is invasive in nature, left untreated can spreads to the lymph nodes, peripheral nerves and other vital structures.

Frequent Signs and Symptoms: SCC usually looks like a small shallow ulcer with elevated margins or raised crusty, bump on the skin that eventually ulcerates

Early SCC may have the appearance of a hypertrophic actinic keratosis, might also resemble a warty lesion.

Treatment: Early detection and treatment is important to prevent complications.
Surgical excision with clear margins and Mohs micrographic surgery are the primary methods of treatment

Diagnosis of suspicious lesion is done by punch biopsy, shave biopsy or surgical excision. Collected tissue is then examined by dermatopathologist who further provides detail report and diagnosis description. Depending upon pathology results, additional excision with skin margins or referral to might be needed.

Do wait, if you have questions or concerns about a suspicious mole or dark spot on your skin, schedule an appointment for a skin exam with Dr Jozef Tryzno
Call: (847) 518-9999

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