HuidSCC

HuidSCC, short for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, is a malignant tumor of keratinocytes arising in the epidermis. It is a common form of skin cancer, typically developing on sun-exposed skin such as the face, ears, neck, and hands. In English-language sources the term cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma is used; HuidSCC is a regional naming convention.

Risk factors include chronic ultraviolet exposure, fair skin, older age, and immunosuppression (for example after solid organ transplantation). Additional factors are chronic wounds or scars, arsenic exposure, and certain human papillomavirus infections. Clinically, lesions may present as a persistent, scaly, crusted, or ulcerated papule or plaque; high-risk sites include the lip and ear.

Diagnosis requires a skin biopsy for histopathology. Staging follows established guidelines for cutaneous SCC, with assessment of tumor size, depth, perineural invasion, nodal involvement, and metastasis. Imaging is used as needed for suspected nodal or distant disease.

Treatment is primarily surgical. Excision with adequate margins is standard; Mohs micrographic surgery is often preferred for facial or other high-risk lesions. Adjuvant radiotherapy may be used for positive margins, perineural invasion, bone involvement, or large/high-risk tumors. In advanced or unresectable cases, systemic therapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors such as cemiplimab or pembrolizumab is available.

Prognosis depends on stage and high-risk features; outcomes are generally favorable after effective treatment but higher risk exists with large size, lip/ear location, perineural invasion, or immunosuppression. Prevention focuses on sun protection and regular skin checks, especially for high-risk individuals.