MyPathologyReport
October 25, 2023
Squamous cells are a specialized type of cell normally found on the surface of a tissue. They connect together to form a barrier called the epithelium that protects the tissue below the surface from infections and injuries. They have a flat shape and form tight connections with their neighboring cells which allows them to withstand stress better than other types of cells.
Squamous cells are normally found in the skin, the mouth, the esophagus, the large airways in the lungs, the cervix, and the anal canal. In other areas of the body, these cells may develop from a process called metaplasia.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a type of cancer made up of abnormal squamous cells. This type of cancer can develop in any area of the body where squamous cells are normally found. SCC can also develop in an area of squamous metaplasia. In many parts of the body, SCC arises from a precancerous condition called dysplasia.
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