MySkinCancerTeam

Pain from squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) can vary quite a bit from person to person. In early stages, some people feel nothing at all and only notice a new or changing spot on their skin. Others may experience:

- Burning or stinging
- Itching or tenderness
- Numbness or a pins-and-needles feeling
- Mild to moderate pain

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Pain from squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) can vary quite a bit from person to person. In early stages, some people feel nothing at all and only notice a new or changing spot on their skin. Others may experience:

- Burning or stinging
- Itching or tenderness
- Numbness or a pins-and-needles feeling
- Mild to moderate pain

Interestingly, itchiness tends to be more commonly reported than pain in the early stages. As SCC progresses, pain generally gets worse. If the tumor grows deeper into the skin, it can start to affect nerves, fat tissue, muscles, and even bone — which can cause more significant pain, numbness, or difficulty moving nearby body parts.

A growing SCC may also become:

- Ulcerated (open and sore)
- More prone to bleeding
- Increasingly tender to the touch

Tumors on sensitive areas like the face, ears, lips, or scalp can be especially painful because of the nerves in those regions. The key takeaway is that early treatment can often prevent SCC from reaching the more painful, advanced stages. It's worth flagging any changes — even painless ones — to a dermatologist sooner rather than later, since waiting doesn't do any favors when it comes to SCC.

 AI-generated responses are not a substitute for medical advice. These services are not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition or disease. Always ask your doctor about specific health concerns.

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