A nurse is performing an integumentary assessment. Which finding should the nurse identify as possible squamous cell carcinoma?

Choice A reason: Raised purple nodules on the hard palate are more consistent with Kaposi’s sarcoma, often associated with immunocompromised states such as HIV/AIDS, not squamous cell carcinoma. Choice B reason: A small macule with a yellow-brown scale is more characteristic of actinic keratosis, which is a precancerous lesion but not yet squamous cell carcinoma. Choice C reason: A firm nodule with a hard crust is a classic presentation of squamous cell carcinoma. These lesions often arise from sun-exposed areas and can ulcerate or crust. They are malignant and require prompt evaluation and treatment. Choice D reason: Yellow-white patches of growth on the tongue are more consistent with oral candidiasis or leukoplakia, not squamous cell carcinoma.