Merkel Cell Carcinoma Treated at Karmanos

Treatment of Merkel Cell Carcinoma

What is Merkel Cell Carcinoma?

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a very rare type of skin cancer. This type of skin cancer often appears as one painless lump on the face, head or neck. Also known as neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin, this type of cancer forms on the top layer of the skin. These types of neuroendocrine cells possess both a nervous system and endocrine system functions. Merkel cell carcinoma forms when the Merkel cells grow out of control and metastasize quickly at an early stage. This skin cancer may spread to the surrounding lymph nodes or skin in different areas of the body, such as the lungs, brain, bone, or other organs.

What are the risk factors for Merkel cell carcinoma?

MCC most often develops in individuals older than 50 years old. These certain factors can increase an individual's risk of Merkel cell carcinoma:

• Being exposed to a lot of natural sunlight.
• Being exposed to artificial sunlight, including tanning beds or psoralen and ultraviolet A (PUVA) therapy for psoriasis.
• Having a weakened immune system.
• Having a history of other types of cancer.
• Being older than 50 years old.

What are the signs of Merkel cell carcinoma?

Merkel cell carcinoma first appears on sun-exposed areas of skin. These lumps can often be characterized as:

• About the size of a dime and growing quickly.
• Dome shaped or raised.
• Firm.
• Itchy.
• Appears similar to a pimple or insect bite.
• Skin colored or red, purple, or bluish red in color.
• Tender or sore.

How do I lower my risk for Merkel cell carcinoma?

Although sun exposure is not the cause of all Merkel cell carcinomas, sun exposure is a significant risk factor for this type of cancer. These steps can help lower the risk of Merkel cell carcinoma including:

• Staying out of the sun in the middle of the day.
• Wearing sunscreen all year-round.
• Wearing protective clothing to protect from the sun.
• Checking your skin often for growths or changes, like moles, freckles, bumps, and birthmarks.

How is Merkel cell carcinoma diagnosed?

Merkel cell carcinoma typically appears on sun-exposed skin. A dermatologist is typically the one to diagnose skin diseases like Merkel cell carcinoma. Merkel cell carcinoma can often look similar to benign (noncancerous) cysts, infected hair follicles and styes. Your healthcare provider will provide a full-body skin exam to assess swollen lymph nodes. If the healthcare provider discovers suspicious lymph nodes, he will likely order a skin biopsy to check for cancer cells.

What are treatment options for Merkel cell carcinoma?

Treatments for Merkel cell carcinoma will vary based on the type of tumor, the size and location.

There are different treatment types for patients with Merkel cell carcinoma including surgery, wide local excision, lymph node dissection, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation therapy. You and your cancer care team will work together to decide on the best, personalized treatment plan for you.

Early detection is one of the most powerful weapons in the fight against cancer.