Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second most common skin cancer after basal cell carcinoma. It usually shows up as a scaly, crusty or tender spot that grows, or a sore that will not heal. Unlike a BCC, an SCC can spread if left untreated — so a spot that fits is worth a doctor’s eye sooner rather than later.
Squamous cell carcinomaA raised, scaly nodule with a central keratin craterWhat does an SCC look like?
- A scaly, crusty or rough patch that grows or will not settle.
- A firm, tender lump, sometimes wart-like.
- A sore that will not heal, or that heals then breaks down.
- Sometimes it feels sore or tender to touch.
Where SCCs appear
On the most sun-exposed skin: the face, ears, lips, scalp (especially if balding), backs of the hands and forearms. They often arise in skin that already shows sun damage.
Actinic keratoses: the warning stage
Many SCCs develop from actinic (solar) keratoses — rough, scaly “sandpaper” patches on sun-damaged skin that are considered precancerous. A keratosis that becomes thicker, tender, or starts to grow can be an early SCC and is worth checking.
Is an SCC dangerous?
More so than a BCC, because it can spread if neglected — but most are found and cured early. The message is simple: a scaly or crusty spot that grows, or a sore that will not heal, should be assessed promptly.
How to get it checked
Upload a photo and Dr Walia reviews it, providing written next-step advice from the submitted photographs, including when an in-person examination is appropriate — $49 flat. Get a spot reviewed. Learn more about skin cancer.
An online photo review is not a diagnosis and cannot rule cancer in or out. Any suspicious spot needs an in-person exam and, if required, a biopsy.