Dr. Jane Yoo, a board-certified dermatologist, explains squamous cell carcinoma: what it looks like, who gets it, and when to worry. It can appear as a scaly patch, firm bump, nonhealing sore, or wart-like lesion. See a doctor if a spot doesn't heal after two months.
Hi, I'm Dr. Jane Yoo, board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon. As part of Skin Cancer Awareness Month, let's talk about squamous cell carcinoma, or SCC. SCC is the second most common type of skin cancer, and while it's treatable, it can often become aggressive if left unchecked. It starts in the squamous cells, which makes up the outer layers of the skin. The biggest risk factor is cumulative sun exposure, though indoor tanning can also play a role. SCC can also form in scars, burns, or areas of longstanding inflammation. It typically appears on sun-exposed areas like the face, ears, scalp, lips, necks, and hands. But in people with darker skin types, SCC may show up in less exposed areas such as legs, genitals, or even inside the mouth. There are a few different ways SCC can present. There are a few different ways SCC can present: a rough scaly patch that doesn't go away, a firm red bump or raised growth, a sore that keeps reopening or bleeding, a wart-like lesion, a crusted area on the lip or inside the mouth. So if you have a spot that hasn't healed after 2 months, that's a sign to get it checked. SCC can grow quickly and in some cases spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes. At my office, I frequently treat SCC with Mohs micrographic surgery. Mohs is a precise technique that allows us to remove the cancer layer by layer while examining each section under a microscope. It has the highest cure rate and helps preserve healthy tissue, especially important in delicate areas like the lips, ears, around the eyes. Sun protection plays a big role in prevention. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, wear sun protective clothing, and avoid tanning beds. People who've had actinic keratosis, which are considered precancerous lesions, are at higher risk, so regular skin checks are essential. SCC is highly treatable when caught early. So pay attention to any persistent or changing spots and stay consistent with your dermatology visits. When it comes to skin cancer, early action makes all the difference.
