The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

Squamous Cell Carcinoma

A skin cancer originating from keratinocytes, common in sun-exposed areas and with metastatic potential.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dermatoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Squamous Cell Carcinoma?

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a malignant tumor originating from keratinocytes in the epidermal layer of the skin. It is the second most common skin cancer after basal cell carcinoma, with millions of new cases reported worldwide each year.

The most important factor is cumulative UV exposure. Lesions usually occur on the face, ears, lips, scalp, back of hands, and arms. They can develop from precancerous lesions such as actinic keratosis or de novo on healthy skin.

The prognosis of early-stage SCC is generally good; however, if neglected, it can lead to death by metastasizing to lymph nodes and internal organs. High-risk locations and large lesions require closer follow-up.

Symptoms

Hard, crusted, nodular lesion in sun-exposed areas
Ulceration, central depression, and crusting
Easily bleeding or non-healing wound
Red-pink or yellowish plaque
Rapid growth in the lesion (weeks to months)
Tenderness, pain, or itching
Invasive forms on the lip and genital area

Risk Factors

Chronic and intense UV exposure
Fair skin, red-blond hair, blue eyes
History of actinic keratosis
Organ transplant and immunosuppression
HPV infection (genital and periungual SCC)
Background of chronic wound, burn, or scar
Arsenic exposure, history of radiotherapy

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Non-healing wound or bleeding lesion
  • Rapidly growing hard nodule in a sun-exposed area
  • Changes on a background of actinic keratosis
  • All suspicious lesions in organ transplant recipients
  • Non-healing lesion on lips or genital area

Treatment Methods

01
Surgical excision (preferred treatment)
02
Mohs micrographic surgery (in high-risk locations)
03
Curettage and electrodesiccation (in small, low-risk lesions)
04
Radiotherapy (as inoperable or adjuvant treatment)
05
Systemic treatments in advanced stage patients (cemiplimab, chemotherapy)
06
Sun protection and regular dermatologist follow-up (recurrence prevention)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dermatoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Dermatoloji Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

Dermatoloji

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin disease commonly seen especially in children, flaring with genetic predisposition and environmental triggers.

Psoriasis

Dermatoloji

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease in which skin cells proliferate rapidly when the immune system mistakenly attacks the skin, leading to thick scaly lesions.

Acne

Dermatoloji

Acne is a skin disease resulting from clogging of hair follicles with oil and dead skin cells, commonly seen in adolescence but can occur at any age.

Rosacea

Dermatoloji

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory facial skin disease characterized by recurrent flushing, persistent erythema, telangiectasia, and inflammatory papules and pustules. Phymatous change and ocular involvement may complicate advanced disease.

Urticaria (Hives)

Dermatoloji

Urticaria is a skin condition with sudden pink-red wheals and intense itching that may follow an acute or chronic course.

Skin Fungal Infections

Dermatoloji

Skin fungal infections are common, contagious skin diseases caused by dermatophytes and yeast fungi colonizing the upper layers of the skin.

Hair Loss (Alopecia)

Dermatoloji

Alopecia is a general term for hair loss that can be genetic, hormonal, autoimmune, or nutritional; early intervention can slow progression.

Vitiligo

Dermatoloji

Vitiligo is an acquired autoimmune disease in which CD8+ T cells destroy melanocytes, producing well-demarcated depigmented patches. Early, sustained treatment can induce repigmentation and prevent progression; psychosocial impact warrants holistic care.

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.