Why does squamous cell carcinoma cause skin ulcer?

Skin Ulcer is a common presentation of Squamous Cell Carcinoma. A tumour can grow through the normal layers of skin, weaken the surface, and leave an open area that does not rebuild normally. The ulcer may have a raised or firm edge, a crust, bleeding, tenderness, or a moist base. It can appear on sun-exposed skin, but location alone cannot determine the cause. Ulcers also arise from pressure, infection, injury, poor circulation, and inflammatory conditions.

Arrange a dermatology assessment for a new ulcer, one that persists, or an area that repeatedly crusts and opens. Keep it gently clean and covered with a suitable dressing, avoid scraping or picking it, and protect surrounding skin from sun. Tell the clinician when it began, whether it bleeds or hurts, and whether it has changed. They may examine the borders and recommend a skin biopsy to identify the cause.

Seek urgent medical attention if bleeding continues despite firm gentle pressure, pain or swelling increases quickly, redness spreads, pus develops, or fever accompanies the ulcer. Prompt review is also needed when an ulcer is near the eye, on the lip, or on the ear, or when you have a weakened immune system. Do not rely on the ulcer’s appearance to decide whether it is serious.

Ask what causes are being considered, whether the ulcer needs a biopsy, how to dress it safely, and which changes should trigger urgent review. Ask whether nearby lymph nodes or other skin areas need examination.