Merkel-cell carcinoma

Merkel-cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive type of skin cancer that usually appears as a flesh-colored or bluish-red nodule, often on your face, head or neck. Merkel-cell carcinoma is also called neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin.

Causes

MCC is believed to be caused by a combination of factors, including long-term sun exposure and a weakened immune system. The Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is also associated with most cases of MCC.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of MCC is a fast-growing, painless nodule (bump) on your skin. The nodule may be skin-colored or may appear in shades of red, blue or purple. Most often, the nodule will appear on a sun-exposed area, such as your face, neck or scalp.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of MCC often involves a skin biopsy, where a sample of the suspicious skin is removed and examined under a microscope. Other tests, such as imaging tests and sentinel lymph node biopsy, may also be used to determine the extent of the cancer.

Treatment

Treatment options for MCC include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. In some cases, a combination of these treatments may be used. Immunotherapy is a newer treatment option that uses the body's immune system to fight the cancer.

Prognosis

The prognosis for MCC varies greatly depending on the stage of the disease at diagnosis. Early detection and treatment can significantly improve the prognosis.

See also

• Skin cancer
• Merkel cell
• Immunotherapy

References

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  Micrographs of a typical Merkel cell carcinoma