What is "squamous cell carcinoma"?

Squamous cell carcinoma is a type of cancer that originates from squamous epithelial cells, which are flat cells found on the surface of the skin and various mucous membranes. The malignant nature of this tumor indicates that it has the potential to invade surrounding tissues and spread to other parts of the body. This distinction is crucial because, unlike benign growths, squamous cell carcinoma can lead to serious health complications due to its aggressive behavior.

Squamous cell carcinoma often develops in areas exposed to the sun, such as the skin, but can also occur in other regions, like the lungs or the cervix. Its diagnosis typically relies on cytology and histology, which help differentiate it from benign conditions and other types of malignancies. Understanding this aspect of squamous cell carcinoma is important in the broader context of cancer pathology, as it reflects the behavior of specific cell types and their transformation from normal to cancerous states.