Squamous Cell Skin Cancer Specialist
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Trevan Fischer, MD
Surgical Oncologist & General Surgeon located in Los Angeles, CA & Fullerton, CA
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is one of the two most common types of skin cancer in the United States, with millions of cases diagnosed every year. This cancer develops in the flat squamous cells that make up the outer layer of the skin and is most often linked to long-term sun exposure or tanning bed use. SCC frequently appears on sun-exposed areas such as the face, ears, lips, neck, and hands, though it can develop anywhere on the body. While a diagnosis of skin cancer can feel overwhelming, it is important to know that SCC is highly treatable—particularly when it is caught in its earliest stages.
Trevan Fischer, MD, is a fellowship-trained surgical oncologist who specializes in skin cancers, including squamous cell carcinoma. He has extensive experience in identifying suspicious lesions, performing biopsies, and surgically removing SCC with precise margins to help ensure complete cancer removal. In certain cases, Dr. Fischer also evaluates whether the cancer may have spread to nearby lymph nodes and works with a multidisciplinary team to create the most effective, individualized treatment plan.
Dr. Fischer cares for patients not only in Santa Monica but also throughout Southern California, including Los Angeles, Fullerton, Orange, Bakersfield, San Luis Obispo, and Palm Springs. He emphasizes the importance of early detection and timely treatment to reduce the risk of recurrence or spread and to achieve the best possible outcomes.
As part of The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute, a Cedars-Sinai affiliate, Dr. Fischer provides his patients with access to world-class resources. Cedars-Sinai is nationally recognized for its excellence in cancer care, advanced technology, and innovative clinical trials, gi
Squamous Cell Skin Cancer
What is squamous cell skin cancer?
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is one of the two most common forms of skin cancer in the United States. Each year, about 5.4 million cases of basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers are diagnosed in approximately 3.3 million peoplenationwide. Of these, around 20% are squamous cell carcinomas, amounting to an estimated 1.8 million new SCC cases annually.
SCC begins in the squamous cells, which make up the outermost layer of the skin. Because these cells are constantly exposed to environmental damage, they are especially vulnerable to the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiationfrom the sun or tanning beds. Over time, repeated sun exposure can cause DNA damage in these cells, leading to abnormal growth and cancer formation.
Squamous cell carcinoma most commonly develops in areas of the body that receive frequent sun exposure, such as the:
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Face
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Ears
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Hands
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Neck
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Lips
However, SCC can occur anywhere, even in areas that do not get much sun, including inside the mouth, around the genitals, or on old scars and chronic wounds. Compared with basal cell carcinoma, SCC is slightly more likely to spread (metastasize) to other areas of the body, but this remains uncommon when the cancer is detected and treated early.
What are the signs of squamous cell skin cancer?
SCC can appear in a variety of ways, which can sometimes make it difficult to recognize. The most common warning signs include:
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A firm, red nodule that continues to grow
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A rough, scaly patch that may crust or bleed
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A sore that does not heal or keeps returning
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A raised growth on a scar or old injury site
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A thickened, wart-like area on the skin or lips
Because SCC can sometimes be mistaken for eczema, psoriasis, or a stubborn rash, it’s important to pay close attention to changes in your skin. If you notice a spot that doesn’t look or feel right—or doesn’t go away with conventional treatment—it should be evaluated by a specialist.
How is squamous cell skin cancer diagnosed?
When a suspicious lesion is identified, Dr. Fischer begins with a biopsy, removing a small sample of the tissue to examine it under a microscope. This confirms whether cancer cells are present.
If SCC is diagnosed, Dr. Fischer typically recommends a surgical excision, removing both the cancerous tissue and a margin of surrounding healthy skin. This approach helps ensure the cancer is fully removed while preserving as much normal tissue as possible. The excised tissue is then studied by experienced pathologists to determine the depth of invasion and whether additional treatment is needed.
In select cases—particularly if the cancer is large, aggressive, or shows signs it may have spread—Dr. Fischer may recommend a sentinel lymph node biopsy. This procedure involves injecting a special dye near the tumor and tracing it to the closest lymph node (the “sentinel” node). That node is removed and analyzed to see if cancer cells have spread beyond the skin. While spread is rare with SCC, this test provides valuable information for staging and planning treatment.
Why early detection matters
Most squamous cell carcinomas can be successfully treated when caught early, often with a simple outpatient procedure. If left untreated, however, SCC can become more aggressive, growing deeper into the skin or spreading to nearby tissues and lymph nodes. Early diagnosis and treatment are the best ways to minimize complications and achieve an excellent outcome.
If you notice any unusual skin changes or have been told you may have squamous cell carcinoma, don’t wait. Call the office of Trevan Fischer, MD, or use the online booking tool to schedule a consultation. With expert care and access to the latest advances in cancer treatment through The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute, a Cedars-Sinai affiliate, you’ll have the support and resources you need every step of the way.
