This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.

Skin: How squamous cell carcinoma develops

Squamous cell carcinoma often begins as a persistent, scaly patch, a non-healing sore, or a firm red nodule on sun-exposed areas of the skin. Chronic ultraviolet (UV) exposure, tanning bed use, and cumulative sun damage are major contributors to its development. The lesion may ulcerate or crust and sometimes bleed. Dermatologists use visual exam, dermoscopy, and biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. Early detection on the skin surface makes surgical removal more straightforward, reducing the need for more extensive interventions.

Cancer: Risk factors and progression

As with other forms of cancer, several risk factors influence squamous cell carcinoma risk and progression. Older age, fair skin, a history of sunburns, immunosuppression (for example, organ transplant recipients), and certain genetic conditions raise the likelihood of developing this cancer. If left untreated, squamous cell carcinoma can grow locally, invade deeper tissues, and rarely metastasize to lymph nodes or distant organs. Staging and risk assessment guide whether simple excision is sufficient or if more aggressive therapy is required.

Melanoma vs squamous cell carcinoma

Although melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma are both types of skin cancer, they differ in origin, appearance, and behavior. Melanoma arises from pigment-producing melanocytes and is known for a higher metastatic potential, making early detection critical. Squamous cell carcinoma originates from squamous epithelial cells and tends to present as scaly or crusted lesions on sun-exposed skin. Diagnosis for both relies on biopsy, but management strategies differ: melanoma often requires wider excision margins and sentinel lymph node evaluation in certain stages, while squamous cell carcinoma treatment is typically tailored to tumor thickness, location, and risk features.

Squamous cell carcinoma: Treatment choices

Treatment selection is medical and individualized. Common options include surgical excision with clear margins, Mohs micrographic surgery for high-risk or cosmetically sensitive areas, curettage and electrodessication for small superficial lesions, and cryotherapy for select superficial cancers. Radiation therapy is considered when surgery is not feasible or for adjuvant treatment after incomplete excision. For advanced or metastatic cases, systemic treatments such as immune checkpoint inhibitors (e.g., PD-1 inhibitors) or targeted therapies may be indicated under oncology care. Each option balances cure rates, cosmetic outcomes, and functional preservation.

Medical care, follow-up, and local services

Post-treatment medical follow-up is critical to monitor for recurrence, new skin cancers, and treatment side effects. Dermatology or oncology clinics provide surveillance schedules tailored to the individual—often skin checks every 3–12 months initially. Patients should be counseled on sun protection, self-skin exams, and modification of risk factors. When seeking local services in your area, look for board-certified dermatologists, Mohs surgeons, and multidisciplinary cancer centers for complex cases. Coordination between providers—dermatology, surgical oncology, radiation oncology, and primary care—ensures comprehensive medical management and continuity of care.

Conclusion

Squamous cell carcinoma of the skin is usually manageable when detected early, with a range of medical and surgical treatments available to achieve local control and preserve function. Understanding risk factors, recognizing suspicious lesions, and maintaining regular medical follow-up are key components of successful outcomes. Personalized treatment planning with qualified healthcare professionals helps align therapy with individual risk, goals, and circumstances.