Does squamous cell skin cancer cause skin sore that does not heal?

Squamous cell skin cancer can appear as a rough, scaly patch, a firm bump, or an open sore that repeatedly crusts, bleeds, or starts to heal and then returns. It may develop on sun-exposed skin, although skin cancer can occur in other areas. Appearance alone cannot confirm the diagnosis.

A clinician may inspect the area with magnification and, when needed, remove a small sample for laboratory examination. Irritation, infection, an injury, or another skin condition can also delay healing, so an assessment helps separate these possibilities.

Book an appointment for any sore that persists, enlarges, becomes tender, or repeatedly scabs. Note when it first appeared and whether it changes after washing, dressing, or exposure to sunlight. Keep it clean, avoid picking the crust, and protect the surrounding skin from further sun exposure while waiting for review.

Seek prompt medical advice if the area is rapidly changing, repeatedly bleeding, increasingly painful, spreading redness is present, or you develop fever or feel unwell. Heavy bleeding that does not settle with gentle pressure needs urgent care.

Ask whether the sore needs a biopsy, what other causes are possible, how to care for it during assessment, and which changes should bring you back sooner.