Diagnosis is via a biopsy. For the skin, look under skin biopsy.
The pathological appearance of a squamous cell cancer varies with the depth of the biopsy. For that reason, a biopsy including the subcutanous tissue and basalar epithelium, to the surface is necessary for correct diagnosis.
The performance of a shave biopsy might not acquire enough information for a diagnosis. An excision biopsy is ideal, but not practical in most cases.
An incisional or punch biopsy is preferred. A shave biopsy is least ideal, especially if only the superficial portion is acquired.
Further Reading
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"Squamous cell carcinoma"
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