Squamous Cell Carcinoma Antigen (SCC)
Other marker
SCC Antigen
Squamous Cell Carcinoma Antigen (SCC)
A tumour-associated antigen (a subfraction of TA-4) used as a marker for squamous cell carcinomas, most notably of the uterine cervix, and also of the head and neck, lung, and oesophagus. It is used to monitor known squamous cancers rather than to screen.
PED Notes
Rare on athlete panels and without PED relevance. The main interpretive trap is that benign skin and mucosal conditions raise it: psoriasis, eczema, and other dermatoses, as well as benign lung and liver disease and renal impairment, can all elevate SCC antigen. Given how common skin conditions are in gym-going populations (including acne and steroid-related skin changes), a mild isolated elevation is usually benign.
When high
When elevated (>1.5 ng/mL):
- Benign causes are common: psoriasis, eczema and other inflammatory skin disease, benign respiratory or liver disease, and reduced renal clearance; correlate with the clinical picture and repeat
- The marker is primarily used to monitor a diagnosed squamous cell carcinoma (cervical, head and neck, lung, oesophageal) and to detect recurrence; it is not a screening test
- A persistently rising value without a benign explanation warrants specialist evaluation directed at the relevant site
Action: In a healthy athlete, check for skin conditions and renal function, repeat the test, and pursue further workup only for persistent or rising elevations.
History Chart
Reading History
Frequently Asked Questions
Reference Ranges
Standard Range