Merkel cell carcinoma is an uncommon and aggressive skin cancer that can be fatal. It originates in Merkel cells in the skin’s outer layer (the epidermis). Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light and other risk factors can cause these cells to become cancerous and spread uncontrollably. It spreads fast to different parts of the body and frequently returns following treatment. These cells are located deep within your epidermis (top layer of skin) and are neuroendocrine cells, which work in both the neurological and endocrine systems. They sit near nerve terminals that produce a sense of touch and contain hormone-like chemicals.
At ILS Hospitals, Merkel cell carcinoma treatment is personalized, utilizing surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. Our expert oncologists use advanced diagnostic tools like biopsy, CT scans, and PET scans to accurately diagnose and stage MCC, a rare and aggressive form of skin cancer. Based on the tumor’s size, location, and stage, we create customized treatment plans to improve survival rates, prevent recurrence, and enhance quality of life. We provide compassionate, multidisciplinary care throughout every stage of Merkel cell carcinoma treatment.
Symptoms
Merkel cell carcinoma tumors are most commonly found on sun-exposed skin. You may detect a glossy or pearly lump on a sun-exposed patch of skin. The tumors are most typically found on the face, neck, arms, and eyelids. People who have darker skin are more likely to develop malignant tumors on their legs. Younger people get a bump on their torsos. The lump may also split, forming a wound or sore. The lump can be:
- About the size of a dime and growing quickly
- Dome-shaped or raised
- Firm
- Itchy
- Similar to a pimple (acne) or insect bite
- Skin colored or red, purple or bluish-red
- Tender or sore
Causes
The majority of skin cancers, including Merkel cell carcinoma, are caused by UV radiation from the sun or artificial light sources such as tanning beds. UV light can harm the genetic makeup, or DNA, of skin cells. Eight out of ten persons with Merkel cell carcinoma carry the Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCP).
However, most people infected with MCP do not develop Merkel cell cancer.
Diagnosis
Our doctors identify and treat skin conditions, including Merkel cell cancer. It is critical to consult a skin cancer specialist since various disorders, such as benign (noncancerous) cysts, inflamed hair follicles (folliculitis), and styes, might resemble Merkel cell carcinoma. We conduct a full-body skin examination.
Cancer staging allows us to identify the extent to which cancer has spread. Staging occurs shortly after diagnosis. The higher the stage, the more aggressively the cancer spreads. Stage 0 Merkel cell carcinoma affects only the outer layer of your skin. Stage IV (4) implies malignancy in distant organs. The following tests can be conducted to analyze the situation further :
- CT scan.
- Positron emission tomography (PET) scan.
- Sentinel node biopsy or needle biopsy.
Prevention
You can take the following steps to protect yourself from sun damage and reduce your risk of developing Merkel cell carcinoma:
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 60 or higher every day, even when indoors. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially when outdoors.
- Avoid going outside between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when the sun’s rays are most powerful.
- Dress in tightly woven, long-sleeved clothes, a wide-brimmed hat, and large sunglasses when outdoors.
Learn how to perform skin self-exams and contact your healthcare provider immediately if you notice any skin changes.
