title: Metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the skin.
abstract: Sunlight induced squamous cell carcinoma of the skin is common and produces low incidence of metastases. Non-actinic squamous cell carcinoma, however, possesses a metastatic potential even when well differentiated. A representative case of keratinizing squamous cell carcinoma arising in a lower extremity with development of widespread metastases is discussed. The prognostic factors associated with metastasizing de novo squamous cell carcinoma of the extremity include: site of origin, duration of lesion, degree of differentiation, sex of patient, and size of the primary lesion. Organs prone to metastasis include: regional lymph nodes, liver, lungs, and bone. As skin cancers of this variety metastasize, the clinician must recognize this potential when considering therapeutic strategy.
mesh_terms: D002294:Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / Q000473:pathology*; D006801:Humans; D008175:Lung Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology / Q000556:secondary*; D008207:Lymphatic Metastasis; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012878:Skin Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology*; D014034:Toes