Does basal cell carcinoma cause sore that will not heal?

A basal cell carcinoma may look like a sore that crusts, bleeds, partly closes, and then breaks down again. It can also appear as a shiny spot, a scaly patch, or a small growth with surface breakdown. These changes often occur on sun-exposed skin, including the face, ears, scalp, neck, and hands. Infection, injury, eczema, and other conditions can also produce a sore that lingers, so appearance alone cannot establish the cause.

Book an appointment with a dermatologist or primary-care clinician for any sore that continues to recur or does not heal as expected. Avoid picking the crust, applying harsh acids, or repeatedly treating it with leftover creams. Take a clear photograph and note when it began, whether it bleeds, and whether its size, colour, or texture changes. A clinician may inspect it closely and recommend a biopsy if the area needs confirmation.

Seek prompt assessment when a sore repeatedly bleeds, becomes tender, develops a firm edge, enlarges, or affects an eyelid, nose, ear, or lip. Urgent care is appropriate for heavy bleeding that does not stop with firm pressure, rapidly spreading redness, fever, or severe pain.

Ask what features make the sore concerning, whether a biopsy is needed, how to protect the area while waiting, and which treatment options would fit its location and depth if basal cell carcinoma is confirmed.