How Does Squamous Cell Cancer of the Skin Behave? What is my Prognosis?

Hello, my name is Dr. Thomas Knackstedt, and I’m a board-certified dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Peak Skin Center.

Squamous cell carcinoma can spread to the lymph nodes and, in rare cases, to other organs. However, this happens far less frequently than with cancers like melanoma. For squamous cell carcinoma, we have identified specific risk factors that help us predict an increased likelihood of the cancer spreading to lymph nodes or other parts of the body.

We are particularly concerned about squamous cell cancers that are larger than two centimeters—about the size of a quarter—or cancers that have grown deeper into the underlying tissue, extending beyond the skin and into the fat.

Under the microscope, the pathologist and I also look for certain high-risk features. These include cancer cells that grow around nerves, invade blood vessels, or appear more aggressive or primitive in structure. In these cases, the cells tend to look more disorganized and chaotic compared to a well-behaved squamous cell carcinoma. Sometimes, the genetics within a cancer are also evaluated to identify cancer mutations associated with a higher risk of a dangerous outcome.

All of these factors can increase the risk of the cancer returning locally in the skin or, less commonly, spreading to the lymph nodes or other organs in the future.

Fortunately, the majority of squamous cell carcinomas are detected and treated early, and when that happens, the prognosis is excellent.

When you are concerned about a skin lesion, don’t wait. At Peak Skin Center, we are here for you and your skin. Early skin cancer diagnosis and treatment are the keys to a successful outcome and your peace of mind. Our dermatology specialists, serving Cary, Apex, Holly Springs, and Fuquay-Varina, offer customized treatment plans to manage skin cancer. Board-certified dermatologist and fellowship trained Mohs surgeon Dr. Thomas Knackstedt and the team at Peak Skin Center in Fuquay Varina look forward to serving you. Contact Peak Skin Center to schedule a consultation or book your visit online in a few easy steps.