Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
Understanding Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer, Its Symptoms, and Specialist Care
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common type of skin cancer in the UK. It is a form of non-melanoma skin cancer that develops in the squamous cells, which make up the middle and outer layers of the skin (epidermis).
While SCC is generally slow-growing and highly treatable when caught early, it requires prompt clinical attention because, unlike Basal Cell Carcinoma, it has a small risk of spreading to deeper skin layers or nearby lymph nodes if left untreated.
What Causes Squamous Cell Carcinoma?
Squamous cells are flat, scale-like cells that form the primary physical barrier of your skin. As new cells grow, older squamous cells shed off. When the DNA inside these cells becomes damaged due to repeated exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, the cells begin to multiply abnormally, forming a cancerous growth.
Because SCC is directly linked to cumulative lifetime exposure to sunlight and artificial UV sources, lesions occur most frequently on areas of the body that receive regular sun exposure:
- Face, Lips, and Ears: Particularly the lower lip and upper rim of the ear.
- Scalp and Neck: Areas frequently exposed to direct overhead sunlight.
- Hands and Forearms: Common sites due to daily environmental exposure.
- Lower Legs: Frequently affected by individuals who spend extended periods outdoors.
Pre-existing skin conditions, such as long-standing scars, non-healing ulcers, or areas previously treated with radiation therapy, can also carry a slightly higher risk of developing SCC.
Recognising the Symptoms of SCC
Squamous Cell Carcinoma can vary in appearance, but it most commonly presents as a firm, raised growth with a rough or scaly surface. Unlike benign skin blemishes, SCC lesions tend to grow continuously over several weeks or months and may feel tender or painful to the touch.
| SCC Variation | Clinical Appearance | Common Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Cutaneous Horn | Conical Horn-Like Projection | A hard, keratinised growth that projects outward from a reddened, inflamed base on the skin. |
| Ulcerated SCC | Non-Healing Sore | A persistent open sore with raised, hardened borders that bleeds, oozes, or crusts over repeatedly. |
| Keratoacanthoma | Dome-Shaped Nodule | A fast-growing, firm, red lump with a central crater filled with scaly keratin material. |
| Bowen’s Disease (SCC In Situ) | Red, Scaly Patch | The earliest stage of SCC, appearing as a persistent red patch that remains strictly on the surface of the skin. |
Key Warning Signs to Monitor
You should arrange a clinical assessment promptly if you notice any spot or mark that displays the following behaviour:
- A firm, raised lump that develops a rough, crusty, or scaly cap.
- A sore or spot that bleeds, oozes, or crusts and fails to heal within 4 weeks.
- A persistent mark that feels tender, painful, or sensitive when touched or rubbed by clothing.
Diagnosing and Treating Squamous Cell Carcinoma
The Mole Clinic, our specialist screening clinicians perform detailed evaluations using high-powered dermoscopy. If an SCC is suspected, digital images are reviewed by a Specialist Dermoscopy Doctor to confirm the diagnosis and determine the appropriate clinical pathway.
Treatment Approaches
Because early-stage SCC remains localised to the surface layers of the skin, prompt treatment achieves excellent cure rates and prevents the lesion from penetrating deeper tissues.
- Surgical Excision: The standard and most effective treatment. Under local anaesthetic, a clinician removes the lesion along with a safe margin of surrounding skin, securing the area with fine stitches.
- Curettage and Cautery: Suitable for very early or superficial lesions, such as Bowen's disease. The abnormal tissue is scraped away and the area is sealed using heat.
- Mohs Micrographic Surgery: Used for SCC lesions located on high-risk facial areas, such as the lip or nose, where preserving healthy surrounding tissue is essential for cosmetic and functional reasons.
Understanding Pre-Cancerous Skin Lesions
Before an invasive Squamous Cell Carcinoma develops, the skin often shows early signs of solar damage known as Actinic Keratosis (also called solar keratosis).
Actinic keratoses present as small, rough, dry, or scaly patches that can feel like sandpaper to the touch. While most actinic keratoses remain harmless, a small percentage can gradually progress into full Squamous Cell Carcinoma over time. Identifying and treating these rough patches early is a highly effective way to prevent SCC from forming.
Long-Term Management and Sun Safety
Once an SCC has been effectively removed, the long-term prognosis is excellent. However, having developed an SCC indicates that your skin has accumulated substantial UV exposure over time, placing you at a higher risk of developing further non-melanoma skin lesions.
Protecting Your Skin Moving Forward
- Apply Daily Broad-Spectrum Protection: Use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and a high UVA star rating every day during spring and summer.
- Cover Exposed Areas: Wear wide-brimmed hats and protective clothing when spending time outdoors during peak UV hours (11:00 am to 3:00 pm).
- Conduct Regular Self-Checks: Check your skin every three months for new rough patches, non-healing spots, or changing marks.
- Schedule Professional Skin Examinations: Regular clinician-led checks ensure any early cellular updates or new lesions are detected long before they require complex treatment.
Book a Professional Skin Assessment
If you have a rough, scaly growth, a persistent open sore, or a spot that feels unusually tender, our clinical team is here to provide swift, accurate diagnosis and clear guidance in a supportive environment.
Take prompt action for peace of mind. Book a Single Mole Check, Full Body Skin Check, or Mole Mapping appointment online today, or call our clinical team on 0800 023 4212.