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Squamous cell carcinoma, spindle cell

Last edited: 4/15/2026

Overview

Squamous cell carcinoma, spindle cell (SCC-S) is a rare variant of squamous cell carcinoma characterized by spindle-shaped cells, often presenting with atypical features of both epithelial and mesenchymal origins. It typically arises in the skin but can occur in other organs 1.

Diagnosis

  • Cytology plays a crucial role with fine-needle aspiration biopsy aiding in diagnosis 1.
  • Flow cytometry can enhance diagnostic accuracy by analyzing cell subpopulations and functional properties 2.
  • Histopathological examination is essential for definitive diagnosis, confirming the spindle cell morphology and malignant nature 1.
  • Management

  • Surgical excision is often the primary treatment modality for localized disease 1.
  • Adjuvant radiation therapy may be considered for high-risk features or incomplete resection 1.
  • No specific drug classes or doses are mentioned for SCC-S in the provided abstracts 12.
  • Special Populations

  • No specific guidance provided for pregnancy, pediatrics, elderly, or comorbidities related to SCC-S management in the given abstracts 12.
  • Key Recommendations

  • Utilize fine-needle aspiration biopsy for initial diagnosis, complemented by histopathological examination 1 (Evidence: Moderate).
  • Employ surgical excision as the primary treatment approach for localized spindle cell squamous cell carcinoma 1 (Evidence: Moderate).
  • Consider adjuvant radiation therapy for cases with high-risk features or incomplete surgical removal 1 (Evidence: Moderate).
  • References

    1 Diamantis A, Beloukas AI, Kalogeraki AM, Magiorkinis E. A brief chronicle of cytology: from Janssen to Papanicolaou and beyond. Diagnostic cytopathology 2013. link 2 Fulwyler MJ. Flow cytometry and cell sorting. Blood cells 1980. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      A brief chronicle of cytology: from Janssen to Papanicolaou and beyond.Diamantis A, Beloukas AI, Kalogeraki AM, Magiorkinis E Diagnostic cytopathology (2013)
    2. [2]
      Flow cytometry and cell sorting.Fulwyler MJ Blood cells (1980)

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