Squamous Cell Carcinoma  (SCC)

A Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is a type of skin cancer that develops from squamous cells — the flat cells that form most of the outer layer of the skin. It is the second most common skin cancer in Australia, after Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC).

• Have fair skin that burns easily
• Have a history of frequent or severe sunburns
• Are older in age
• Have a weakened immune system
• Have previous skin cancers or precancerous lesions such as solar keratoses

SCCs can appear in several forms. Common signs include:

• A scaly, crusted, or ulcerated lump that may bleed easily
• A sore that fails to heal over several weeks
• A thickened red patch on sun-exposed areas such as the face, scalp, ears, hands, or lower legs
• A pale, waxy or scar-like area that slowly enlarges

SCCs generally grow faster than BCCs and can sometimes spread if left untreated.

Treatment depends on the size, type, and location of the SCC. Common approaches include:

• Surgical excision – removing the cancer along with a small margin of healthy tissue
• Curettage and cautery – scraping and sealing small lesions
• Cryotherapy – freezing the lesion with liquid nitrogen
• Radiotherapy – used when surgery is not suitable

Early treatment provides an excellent cure rate.

After treatment, it’s important to:

• Have regular skin checks, usually every 6–12 months
• Protect your skin from the sun:
  • Wear broad-brimmed hats, long sleeves, and sunglasses
  • Applying SPF 50+ sunscreen every day
  • Avoid tanning beds and excessive sun exposure
• Report any new, changing, or non-healing spots to your doctor promptly