Squamous cell carcinoma
Below are dermoscopic features commonly associated with the diagnosis “Squamous cell carcinoma”.[1] The example images have been approved by a panel of experts as representative of each given feature.
For a more in-depth discussion of associated features, please see the Dermoscopedia page for “Squamous cell carcinoma”.
Yellow keratin mass / scale crust
The keratin mass consists of amorphous, yellow-white to light-brown areas without any recognizable structure.[1]
White circles (“keratin pearls”)
Rosette sign
White, four-leaf clover-shaped structure; can only be seen with polarized dermoscopy.[2]
Glomerular (coiled) blood vessels
Glomerular vessels are the dermoscopic manifestations of tortuous, dilated capillaries.[3]
Hairpin vessels, usually with whitish halo
Hairpin (looped) vessels are characterized by vessels that resemble hairpins, consisting of a U-shape with a sharp bend at one end.[4]
Ulceration / blood spots/ hemorrhage
Ulceration consists of large, irregularly shaped or roundish areas of dull red or red-brown structureless color.[5]
- ↑ Fried LJ, Tan A, Berry EG, et al. Dermoscopy Proficiency Expectations for US Dermatology Resident Physicians: Results of a Modified Delphi Survey of Pigmented Lesion Experts. JAMA Dermatol. Published online January 06, 2021. doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2020.5213
