What should be recommended for a 72-year-old female with a non-healing ulcer on her upper lip?

In the case of a 72-year-old female with a non-healing ulcer on her upper lip, recommending that she be evaluated by a dermatologist is the most appropriate course of action due to the potential underlying causes and complexities associated with chronic or non-healing wounds, especially in older adults.

Non-healing ulcers can arise from various etiologies, such as malignancies, chronic infections, or systemic diseases. Given the patient's age and the specific location of the ulcer, a thorough dermatological assessment is crucial to rule out serious conditions such as squamous cell carcinoma or other skin lesions that may require specialized treatment or intervention.

The other treatments listed, like topical corticosteroids or antibiotic ointments, may provide temporary relief or be suitable for superficial wounds or inflammatory conditions, but they are insufficient without first confirming the diagnosis of the ulcer. Applying these treatments without proper evaluation may lead to delayed diagnosis of more serious conditions and unintended consequences. Therefore, prompting a specialist review ensures comprehensive management of the ulcer and addresses any potential complications effectively.