A new evidence-based risk stratification system for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma into low, intermediate, and high risk groups with implications for management

Publication date: January 2018
Source:Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 78, Issue 1
Author(s): Christian L. Baum, Adam C. Wright, Juan-Carlos Martinez, Christopher J. Arpey, Jerry D. Brewer, Randall K. Roenigk, Clark C. Otley
Most primary cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas are cured with surgery. A subset, however, may develop local and nodal metastasis that may eventuate in disease-specific; death. This subset has been variably termed high risk. Herein, we review; an emerging body of data on the risks of these outcomes and propose an evidence-based; risk stratification for low-, intermediate-, and high-risk tumors that takes into; account both tumor and patient characteristics. Finally, we discuss a framework for; management of these tumors on the basis of data, when available, and our; recommendations when data are sparse.