Squamous Cell Carcinoma

SCC: What is the pathophysiology?

• Originates in epidermal keratinocytes

• Pain, tenderness or bleeding

• Grows over few weeks or months

SCC: What is the presentation?

• Keratinised

• Scaly horn or plug (bump)

SCC: Which lesions can develop into SCC?

• Actinic keratosis

• Marjolin ulcer→ due to previous injury e.g. burns or scars

• Bowen’s disease→ precancerous lesion which is defined by irregular, red, keratinised scaly plaques

SCC: What is the treatment?

• Almost always treated surgically with excision using a 4mm margin (6mm for high-risk lesions)

• Micrographic surgery for poorly-defined areas

• Radiotherapy

• Other options: curettage and cautery, topical 5-fluorouracil, topical imiquimod, cryotherapy for low-risk lesions