Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Causes, Signs, and What You Need to Know
When your skin cells start growing out of control, squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer that begins in the flat, scale-like cells of the epidermis. Also known as SCC, it’s the second most common skin cancer after basal cell carcinoma—and it’s not something you can ignore. Unlike harmless moles or sun spots, squamous cell carcinoma doesn’t just sit there. It grows, sometimes quickly, and can spread if left untreated. Most cases show up on skin that’s been exposed to the sun for years—scalp, ears, lips, hands, and arms—but it can also form in scars, chronic sores, or even inside the mouth.
This isn’t just about aging skin. UV damage, the main driver behind most squamous cell carcinomas comes from years of sunburns, tanning beds, or just daily exposure without protection. People with fair skin, a history of sunburns, or weakened immune systems are at higher risk. But even darker-skinned individuals can get it, especially in less exposed areas like the legs or feet. And here’s something many don’t realize: basal cell carcinoma, a different kind of skin cancer that grows slowly and rarely spreads, looks very different from squamous cell carcinoma. Basal cell tends to be shiny or pearly, while SCC often appears as a scaly red patch, a firm bump, or an open sore that won’t heal. Mistaking one for the other can delay treatment.
Early detection saves lives. A spot that bleeds easily, crusts over, or changes shape in weeks—not months—is a red flag. Doctors can diagnose it with a quick biopsy, and if caught early, it’s usually removed with a simple outpatient procedure. But if it grows deeper, it can invade nerves, bone, or even spread to lymph nodes. That’s why knowing the signs matters more than worrying about sunscreen every day. You don’t need to avoid the sun completely, but you do need to watch your skin like you watch your phone battery—regularly, and with attention.
What you’ll find below are real, practical articles that connect directly to squamous cell carcinoma—from how to spot warning signs before it spreads, to how medications and treatments work, and even how other conditions like immune disorders or chronic wounds play a role. No fluff. No guesswork. Just clear, usable info to help you understand what’s happening—and what to do next.
