How is cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma (cSCC) Diagnosed?
To confirm a diagnosis of cSCC your doctor will perform standard tests and procedures including:
Physical exam
– Your doctor will examine your skin for signs of cSCC. Your doctor will check the size, shape, colour, and texture of the spot on your skin. They will also likely check to see if your lymph nodes are larger than usual.
– Your doctor will also ask you questions about your medical and health history, such as your history with sunburns or tanning beds, any pain or symptoms you feel, and when you first noticed the spot had appeared.
Removing a sample of tissue for testing (biopsy)
– If your doctor thinks the lesion looks questionable, in order to accurately confirm a diagnosis of CSCC, they will perform a biopsy of the skin lesion.
– A biopsy is when your doctor uses a tool to cut away some or all of the suspicious skin lesion and sends the skin tissues to a laboratory for testing.
What’s Next?
Following the results of your physical exam and biopsy, your doctor will determine the best treatment options for you. Click Here to learn how doctors your doctor determine the best treatment options.