ORGANUM

Squamous cell carcinoma

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), is a invasive mucocutaneous malignancy that arises from keratinocytes. It may develop de novo or from precursor AK or SCC in situ (Bowen).


Etiology

In all phototypes, invasive SCC may develop in sites of HPV infection, scars, chronic injury, or inflammation, previous radiation therapy, or chemical exposure (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons).

There are some clinical variants of SCC:

  1. Keratoacanthoma (KA)

  2. Verrucous carcinoma

  3. Mucosal SCC

  4. Periungual and subungual SCC


Epidemiology

SCC is more common in males than females, and incidence increases with age.


Pathophysiology


Histopathology

An SCC has extended through all layers of the epidermis and the dermis.


Presentation and history

The clinical presentation is a erythematous, keratotic papule or nodule that arises within a background of sun-damaged skin. Tenderness is common, with a history of rapid enlargement and sometimes a history of antecedent trauma.


Investigations and diagnosis


Management and treatment


Prognosis


Differential diagnosis