Does squamous cell carcinoma cause skin ulcer?

Squamous cell carcinoma may form a rough patch, raised growth, or wound-like area that breaks down into an ulcer. The surface may crust, ooze, bleed, or feel sore. Most people with Squamous Cell Carcinoma notice skin ulcer; that frequency describes a recognized presentation of the condition and does not diagnose a particular ulcer.

Skin ulcers can also follow pressure, injury, infection, reduced blood flow, inflammation, or other disorders. The depth, edge, surrounding skin, and changes over time help a clinician decide whether testing is needed.

Have a new, persistent, enlarging, or unexplained ulcer examined. Cover it with a clean dressing if it rubs against clothing, avoid scraping or picking it, and note bleeding, discharge, pain, and changes in the border. Do not use corrosive home remedies or leftover prescription creams on it.

A clinician may clean and examine the ulcer and may suggest a biopsy to clarify the diagnosis. For context, read [Squamous Cell Carcinoma](/conditions/squamous-cell-carcinoma/) or [Skin Ulcer](/symptoms/skin-ulcer/).

Seek prompt medical care for spreading redness, warmth, pus, fever, rapidly worsening pain, blackened tissue, or bleeding that does not settle with gentle pressure. Get faster assessment if the ulcer is close to the eye, mouth, or nose, or if swelling interferes with movement or vision.

Ask what may be causing the ulcer, whether a sample is needed, how to keep it protected, and which warning signs should change the timing of follow-up.