What is an unusual characteristic of squamous cell carcinoma lesions?

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) lesions are often characterized by their raised nature and scaly patches. This presentation results from the abnormal proliferation of squamous cells, which can lead to thickened, rough, and often crusty areas on the skin’s surface. These lesions are typically erythematous and can vary in size, often appearing as plaques or nodules that may bleed or crust over as they progress. The scaly texture is a distinguishing feature that sets them apart from other skin lesions, indicating the keratinization that occurs as the cells proliferate.

In contrast to raised scaly patches, other characteristics mentioned do not align with the typical presentation of squamous cell carcinoma. For example, a smooth surface would indicate a more benign lesion or a different type of skin condition. The idea that SCC would generally be found exclusively in sun-exposed areas is misleading, as while UV exposure is a significant risk factor, SCC can occur in non-sun-exposed regions of the skin as well. Lastly, fluid-filled lesions would suggest other dermatological issues, such as vesicular lesions seen in conditions like herpes or contact dermatitis, which do not correlate with the characteristics of squamous cell carcinoma. Thus, raised lesions with scaly patches accurately reflect