What should you know about a rodent ulcer on the nose?

Rodent ulcer is an older name for [Basal Cell Carcinoma](/conditions/basal-cell-carcinoma/), which often develops on sun-exposed skin. On the nose it may look like a shiny or pearly bump, a sore that repeatedly crusts or bleeds, a scaly patch, or a mark that slowly enlarges and does not heal. It may be painless, so lack of pain does not rule it out. A clinician may need to examine the area closely and take a biopsy before confirming the diagnosis.

Arrange a prompt dermatology appointment for any nasal lesion that keeps returning, changes, bleeds easily, or fails to heal. Do not pick the scab or rely on home wart or acid treatments. Use shade, a hat, and broad-spectrum sunscreen to reduce further ultraviolet exposure; [Sun-Damaged Skin](/conditions/photoaging/) can add to the background risk. If basal cell carcinoma is confirmed, treatment may include [Surgical Excision](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/excisional-surgery/) or [Mohs Surgery](/treatments/surgical-dermatology/mohs-surgery/), depending on location and extent.

Seek urgent assessment for heavy bleeding that does not stop with firm pressure, rapidly increasing swelling, severe pain, fever, or new vision changes. Otherwise, do not delay a routine specialist review for a persistent spot. Early assessment helps clarify whether the lesion is cancer, another growth, infection, or an inflammatory condition and guides the least disruptive suitable treatment.

Ask whether the lesion needs a biopsy, how close it is to important nasal structures, which treatment would preserve function and appearance, whether [Photodynamic Therapy](/treatments/laser-and-energy/photodynamic-therapy/) or [Imiquimod Treatment](/treatments/medical-dermatology/imiquimod-therapy/) is appropriate, and how follow-up will work.