squamous cell carcinoma of the skin
Last reviewed 07/2021
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a malignant tumour of the epidermis in which the cells, if differentiated, show keratin formation.
Development of squamous cell carcinoma of the skin is associated with excessive sunlight exposure, exposure to chemical carcinogens such as coal tar products, chronic irritation, and in patients with immunosuppression.
There is an increased frequency in persons with non- pigmented skin. It is less common than basal cell carcinoma (BCC), with an incidence ratio of BCC:SCC of 4:1.
Histology is required to discriminate the lesions - usually nodular and kerotic - from basal cell carcinoma and solar keratosis.
NICE urgent referral guidance for suspected skin squamous cell carcinoma