Squamous Cell Carcinoma: An Essential Guide for Australians
Updated: Oct 14
Australia experiences some of the highest skin cancer rates in the world. Melanoma tends to receive most of the attention in public health discussions, but Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) is actually far more common. It accounts for a significant number of skin cancer diagnoses each year.
As a skin cancer doctor, I diagnose and treat SCC regularly. If caught early, it is highly treatable, with high cure rates. However, unlike Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), SCC tends to grow faster. If left untreated, it can spread (metastasise) to nearby lymph nodes.
Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Warning Signs to Watch For
Many patients come in thinking they have a minor abrasion or a localised patch of chronic sun damage that fails to resolve. SCC primarily develops on areas of the body with high cumulative exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. These areas include the ears, nose, lower lip, bald areas of the scalp, lower legs, and the backs of the hands.
Key Clinical Features to Observe
A sore (lesion) that won’t heal: A patch of skin that scabs over, bleeds easily, undergoes minor crusting, or does not heal after several weeks.
A lump that’s growing fast: A firm, often tender, red lump that increases in size week to week, rather than over a period of months.
A rough, scaly patch (Hyperkeratosis): An area of skin that feels dry, crusty, or abrasive like sandpaper, and might be sore when touched or pressed.
A hard, horn-like growth: Occasionally, the skin produces a build-up of hard, thickened tissue (overproduction of keratin) that protrudes from the skin surface. This can be sitting on top of an SCC or a pre-cancerous spot.
The bottom line: If any spot or sore has not healed on its own within six weeks, it needs to be checked by a medical professional.
Who Is Most at Risk of Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)?
SCC is common in Australia due to high UV levels and a population that spends considerable time outdoors. It is important to understand that the SCCs diagnosed today often result from sun exposure that occurred decades earlier. Sun damage accumulates over two to three decades.
Higher Risk Groups
Some individuals are at significantly higher risk:
Outdoor workers: Tradespeople, farmers, agricultural workers, landscapers, and anyone who spends long hours outside for work.
Older generations: Individuals who grew up before sun protection and sunscreen were well understood.
People with a weakened immune system: This includes patients managing chronic illnesses or taking immunosuppressive medications (such as organ transplant recipients). SCC can also grow more aggressively in these individuals.
Clinical Management and Treatment Options for Squamous Cell Carcinoma
If diagnosed, the good news is that treatment is well established and usually straightforward. Most options are performed under local anaesthetic, allowing you to return home the same day.
About the Author
Dr. Danika Fietz
Registered Medical Practitioner (AHPRA Reg: MED0000963155)
FRACGP, Master of Medicine Skin Cancer (Qld), MBBS (Melb),Grad Dip Forensic Medicine (Monash), BNHons1 (Syd)
Dr. Danika Fietz brings over 10 years of clinical expertise to diagnosing and treating skin cancers. Accredited by the Skin Cancer College Australasia, she earned her Master of Medicine in Skin Cancer from The University of Queensland. Dr. Danika is dedicated to evidence-based patient care, early detection strategies, and proactive prevention. Discover more about skin health checks and aesthetic services at Doctor Dermis.
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