Non-healing ulcers display a noteworthy demonstrative challenge for clinicians. While often attributed to common causes like infections, these persistent wounds can occasionally mask a more sinister underlying condition: malignancy. This case report presents a 39-year-old Indian man with a non-healing ulcer on his right gluteal region. Despite initial treatments for a presumed bacterial infection, the ulcer persisted. Biopsy ultimately revealed a malignant neoplasm of possible hematopoietic origin, positive for CD30 and focally positive for CD45. Further investigations, including MRI, FNAC, and X-rays, were indicative of lymphoma. Non-healing ulcers present a challenge due to diverse etiologies. A thorough understanding of potential causes, including infectious, vascular, autoimmune, and malignant etiologies, is crucial for navigating the diagnostic process. This case highlights the critical role of maintaining a broad differential diagnosis for non-healing ulcers and the importance of a biopsy in reaching a definitive diagnosis. Early recognition of malignancy in such cases is essential for optimal patient management. This case underscores the importance of considering malignancy in patients with persistent ulcers and performing biopsies for a definitive diagnosis. While the initial presentation mimicked an infectious process, the biopsy revealed a possible cutaneous anaplastic T-cell lymphoma. Further investigations are necessary to definitively classify the specific lymphoma subtype and guide further treatment decisions.

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is indeed one of the most common types of oral cancer, typically affecting individuals over the age of 50. It primarily originates from the squamous epithelial cells lining the oral cavity. While it is relatively rare in individuals under 40 years old, it can still occur, albeit less frequently in that age group. Risk factors for developing OSCC include tobacco use (smoking or chewing), excessive alcohol consumption, chronic irritation (such as from poorly fitting dentures), human papillomavirus (HPV), infection, and certain dietary foods. Early detection and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes and reducing the mortality associated with this type of cancer. This report describes a case of OSCC, staged T2 N0 M0, involving the right buccal mucosa of a 51-year-old male patient. The patient reported intense pain in an ulcer on the right side of his cheek. This report focuses on the etiological factors and a brief literature review of squamous cell carcinoma.