Pathology · single question

Oral squamous cell carcinoma originates from which epithelial layer?

Stratum spinosum
Stratum granulosum
Stratum lucidum
Stratum corneum

Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. Stratum spinosum

SCC (squamous cell carcinoma) originates from the stratum spinosum — the prickle cell layer. Memory aid: SCC = Stratum Spinosum. Malignant keratinocytes from this layer invade the basement membrane. Stratum granulosum is where keratinization begins. Lucidum exists only in thick skin. Corneum is the outermost dead layer.

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