Template:Squamous cell carcinoma - Degree of differentiation

Applicable to invasive SCC.

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  Well-differentiated (and yet invasive) SCC, showing prominent keratinization and may form “pearllike” structures where dermal nests of keratinocytes attempt to mature in a layered fashion. Well-differentiated SCC has slightly enlarged, hyperchromatic nuclei with abundant amounts of cytoplasm. Intercellular bridges will frequently be visible.
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  Moderately differentiated lesions of invasive SCC show much less organization and maturation with significantly less keratin formation.
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  Poorly differentiated, where attempts at keratinization are often no longer evident. This is a clear-cell squamous cell carcinoma. The dysplastic cells here infiltrate in cords through the dermis. Poorly differentiated SCC has greatly enlarged, pleomorphic nuclei demonstrating a high degree of atypia and frequent mitoses.
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  Poorly differentiated clear-cell squamous cell carcinoma. For this type of SCC, immunostains will likely be required to classify it unless other areas of the tumor show obvious squamous cell features such as seen here (keratinization in center).