Merkel Cell Carcinoma

Merkel cell carcinoma, also called neuroendocrine cancer of the skin, is an aggressive type of skin cancer.A normal Merkel cell is a cross between a nerve cell and an endocrine (or hormone-producing) cell located on or just below the skin in the underlying tissue, and functions predominantly as a touch receptor. Merkel cell carcinoma occurs when these cells begin to grow uncontrollably.

Merkel cell tumors typically arise on, but are not limited to, sun-exposed parts of the body such as the face and neck. Their shape and color are less distinctive than other skin cancers, and they can often appear as an innocent pink pearly nodule. As a result, it is usually only the speed with which they grow that attracts the attention of patients and their doctors.

With early detection and treatment, Merkel cell carcinoma can be well contained and even cured. Treatment becomes more difficult as the tumor grows and spreads, but aggressive therapy can still lead to high rates of survival.

Risk Factors
Sun exposure, fair skin, a weakened immune system, and older age are all factors that can increase the risk of developing this uncommon skin cancer. Infection with the Merkel cell virus may also be a factor in Merkel cell carcinoma. Men are at a slightly increased risk of the disease than women. No genetic link has been found.

Symptoms
Merkel cell tumors usually appear as small, often shiny, painless lumps that range in color from flesh toned to bluish-red. They are often mistaken for a bug bite or a basal cell carcinoma. These tumors commonly arise on sun-exposed regions of the body, particularly the face or scalp. However, they can also appear on the arms, legs, trunk, and even areas of the body that are not exposed to sunlight, such as the buttock.

Like melanoma, another aggressive type of skin cancer, Merkel cell carcinoma can grow rapidly over a few weeks or months, and can metastasize (spread) to nearby lymph nodes and other parts of the body. If the disease has spread to a lymph node, it may feel enlarged. However, cancer could still be present even if it is not outwardly noticeable.