Skin Cancer & Precancer
Squamous Cell Carcinoma (Invasive)
WHAT IS IT
A common skin cancer that grows deeper
HOW COMMON
Second most common skin cancer
CONTAGIOUS?
No — you cannot catch it or spread it
CURABLE?
Yes — very treatable, best caught early
What Is It?
Invasive squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common skin cancer in which abnormal cells have grown deeper than the top layer of skin. It often looks like a firm bump, a wart-like growth, or a crusted, tender sore. Most cases are cured when treated early, but deeper or neglected tumors carry a higher risk of spreading.
Signs & Symptoms
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A firm red bump, or a wart-like or crusted growth
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A sore that bleeds, crusts, and does not heal
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May feel tender or painful
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Can grow more quickly than other skin cancers
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Common on the face, ears, lips, scalp, hands, and arms
Why Does It Happen?
SCC is caused mainly by long-term ultraviolet (UV) damage from the sun or tanning beds. Fair skin, older age, sunburn history, and a weakened immune system all raise the risk. Areas of chronic wounds or scars can also be involved. It is NOT contagious.
Treatment Options
Invasive SCC is usually treated with surgery to remove it completely. Higher-risk tumors may need additional evaluation or treatment.
SURGICAL EXCISION
Removing the tumor with a margin of normal skin — the usual approach.
MOHS SURGERY
Precise, tissue-sparing surgery with the highest cure rate for high-risk sites.
RADIATION
For those who can't have surgery, or added after surgery in some cases.
ADVANCED CARE
Higher-risk tumors may need lymph node evaluation or systemic therapy.
Tips for Managing It at Home
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Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen daily and reapply
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Wear protective clothing and seek shade at midday
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Do regular skin self-checks; report new or changing spots
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Keep all follow-up and full skin-exam appointments
When to Call Your Provider
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A sore grows, bleeds, or won't heal
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A spot becomes painful, numb, or tingly
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You feel a lump under the skin or near lymph nodes
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A new or fast-growing lesion appears on sun-exposed skin
Sources & further reading
The information in this handout is based on general dermatology guidance from the reputable organizations below. These links are provided for patients who wish to read more from trusted sources.
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Overview. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/skin-cancer/types/common/scc
Canadian Dermatology Association (CDA). Squamous Cell Carcinoma. https://dermatology.ca/public-patients/diseases-conditions/skin-cancer/squamous-cell-carcinoma/
DermNet. Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma. https://dermnetnz.org/topics/cutaneous-squamous-cell-carcinoma
MSD/Merck Manual. Squamous Cell Carcinoma. https://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/dermatologic-disorders/cancers-of-the-skin/squamous-cell-carcinoma
This handout is for general education and does not replace advice from your own provider. Always follow your provider’s specific instructions.
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