How do Squamous Cell Carcinomas typically appear on the skin?

Squamous Cell Carcinomas (SCC) generally present on the skin as red or pink solid bumps, open sores, and crusty areas. These characteristics are indicative of the uncontrolled growth of squamous cells, which are located in the upper layer of the skin. As the condition develops, these lesions can become more pronounced, often appearing as firm to the touch and may bleed or ulcerate.

This manifestation is a consequence of the nature of SCC, which tends to evolve from pre-existing lesions, like actinic keratosis, and can become more severe over time without treatment. The appearance of crusty areas often results from the lesions’ tendency to form scabs or scaly patches, contributing to their noticeably abnormal appearance.

In contrast, other mentioned descriptions typically align with different dermatological conditions. Dry patches of skin could indicate eczema or psoriasis, while dark spots with irregular borders might suggest melanoma. Small, raised bumps without crusting might be more representative of benign conditions like skin tags or certain types of basal cell carcinoma but do not typically encapsulate the characteristics of SCC.