timeline for squamous cell growth

Posted by pat25 @pat25, 23 hours ago

I had a 5mm open sore on my forehead x 2 months. Then, Dx as Squamous cell skin cancer on biopsy. Surgical removal scheduled 2 months out. What are the risk of it spreading within these time frames? Seems like a long time to wait to have it removed. Surgeon/Dermatologist is booked up.

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Susan, Volunteer Mentor | @grammato3 | 22 hours ago

@pat25: I can understand your concerns. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends most SCC be removed as soon as possible after diagnosis; the general timeframe is "within weeks" and can be up to 8 weeks depending on the risk level of the tumor's classification. Some SCCs are classified as lower risk while others are considered more aggressive.

It might help to get the pathology report of the biopsy that had been performed so you can view and possibly discuss the findings with your surgeon/dermatologist to see if intervention is indicated for a more expedient removal and if they can possibly fit you in sooner due to those findings. If it is determined that the findings correspond to a higher risk potential and this practice cannot accommodate you sooner than the two months, ask if they could please refer you to another practice who could see you earlier. If the findings correspond to a lower risk, waiting the eight weeks - with the possibilty to have you on a cancelation wait list - may be an acceptable alternative.

Does that seem like a reasonable consideration?

Ginger, Volunteer Mentor | @gingerw | 22 hours ago

@pat24 Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect! Seeing that spot any time you look in the mirror must be disconcerting for you, right?! And now you need to wait for excision. I agree with @grammato3 about letting them know to place you on a cancellation list. In my experience, being flexible for getting in has often resulted in a quicker appointment.

Are they doing a MOHS procedure?
Ginger