Etymed
squamous cell carcinoma
Definition
a type of cancer that begins in squamous cells, which are thin, flat cells that line the surfaces of the skin, lungs, and other organs
Clinical context
A 65-year-old man presents with a non-healing ulcer on his lower lip that has been present for 8 weeks. He works outdoors as a farmer and has a history of significant sun exposure. On examination, there is a crusted, erythematous lesion with raised borders. Biopsy reveals malignant transformation of stratified squamous epithelium. Squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of skin cancer, often associated with chronic UV exposure.
Mnemonic
SCC stands for Squamous Cell Carcinoma - think 'Squamous' = flat cells, 'Carcinoma' = malignant tumor, often from sun-damaged skin
These morphemes also unlock…
- squamous — scale-like; flat; thin
- cell — small room; basic structural unit
- carcinoma — cancer; malignant tumor