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Updated: Jun 3, 2026
07:29
Intramucosal Inoculation of Squamous Cell Carcinoma Cells in Mice for Tumor Immune Profiling and Treatment Response Assessment
Published on: April 22, 2019
Acantholytic squamous cell carcinoma: is it really a more-aggressive tumor?
Carlos Garcia1, A Neil Crowson
1Department of Dermatology, Oklahoma University Health Sciences Center, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73104, USA. carlos-garcia@ouhsc.edu
Summary
Acantholytic squamous cell carcinoma (ASCC) is not inherently more aggressive than other squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) subtypes. Prognosis for ASCC depends on tumor characteristics and patient factors, not just the subtype.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Acantholytic squamous cell carcinoma (ASCC) is often presumed to be a more aggressive variant of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).
- This perception suggests a potentially worse prognosis compared to other SCC subtypes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically analyze the biological behavior of ASCC.
- To evaluate the existing scientific literature regarding ASCC aggressiveness.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was performed, including English-language articles.
- Manual searches of cited references and standard dermatology textbooks were also conducted.
Main Results:
- No extensive studies specifically detailing the biologic behavior of ASCC were identified.
- Existing data are limited, anecdotal, and present conflicting information.
- Reported recurrence rates varied from 6% to 10%, and metastasis rates ranged from 2% to 43%.
Conclusions:
- Current evidence does not substantiate the claim that ASCC is a more aggressive tumor with a higher risk of recurrence or metastasis.
- Prognosis for ASCC, like other SCCs, is influenced by host factors and tumor characteristics (location, size, depth, differentiation, prior treatment).
- Treatment and follow-up protocols for ASCC should align with those for other SCC types.
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