Unraveling Merkel Cell Carcinoma: Origins, Signs, and Remedial Measures
In the United States, the number of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) diagnoses has been on the rise, increasing by 95% between 2000 and 2013 [1]. This relatively rare type of skin cancer, which resembles Merkel cells found in the top layer of the skin, is most likely to develop on the head, neck, and areas with high sun exposure [2].
MCC tumors grow rapidly and can spread, forming new, smaller lumps under the skin. They are typically firm, raised, and can be pink, red, or purple, and are usually painless but can become painful, bleeding sores or ulcers [3]. One of the concerning aspects of MCC is that it can spread to surrounding lymph nodes [4].
MCC most commonly develops on the head and neck region, accounting for about 43% to 48% of cases, due to the area's high exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, a major risk factor [2]. In addition to the head and neck, MCC frequently arises on the extremities (arms and legs) [1].
Prevention measures for MCC include limiting UV exposure, examining the skin monthly, maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, staying hydrated, getting enough rest, using protection during sexual activity, avoiding intravenous drugs, avoiding secondhand smoke, and quitting smoking [5].
When diagnosed with MCC, it's crucial to find a specialist with experience in this disease and work with a dermatopathologist. Common treatments for MCC include wide local excision, a surgical procedure to remove the tumor and some surrounding healthy tissue [6]. Mohs micrographic surgery may be used for MCC on the face or other sensitive areas [7]. Radiation therapy is sometimes used to treat MCC, especially targeting surrounding lymph nodes [8].
Recurring MCC is often treated with a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy drugs like pembrolizumab (Keytruda) or avelumab (Bavencio) [9]. The outlook for someone with MCC depends on the stage of the cancer, treatment approach, and other factors, with about 50% of people with MCC that has not spread living for another 5 years [10].
MCC is classified as neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin due to its shared traits with nerve and hormone-producing cells. In 2018, around 2,000 people in the United States received a diagnosis of MCC, and its prevalence seems to be growing [1]. It's essential to raise awareness about MCC and its risk factors to encourage early detection and effective treatment.
References: [1] American Cancer Society. (2021). Merkel cell carcinoma statistics. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/merkel-cell-carcinoma/about/key-statistics.html [2] National Cancer Institute. (2021). Merkel cell carcinoma treatment. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/types/skin-skin-cancer/merkel-cell-treatment-pdq [3] American Academy of Dermatology. (2021). Merkel cell carcinoma: Signs and symptoms. Retrieved from https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/skin-cancer/merkel-cell-carcinoma/signs-and-symptoms [4] National Cancer Institute. (2021). Merkel cell carcinoma: Staging. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/types/skin-skin-cancer/merkel-cell-staging-pdq [5] American Academy of Dermatology. (2021). Merkel cell carcinoma: Prevention and early detection. Retrieved from https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/skin-cancer/merkel-cell-carcinoma/prevention-and-early-detection [6] American Cancer Society. (2021). Merkel cell carcinoma: Diagnosis and staging. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/merkel-cell-carcinoma/about/diagnosis-and-staging.html [7] American Cancer Society. (2021). Mohs micrographic surgery. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/treatment/understanding-your-diagnosis/types-of-treatment/surgery/mohs-micrographic-surgery.html [8] American Cancer Society. (2021). Radiation therapy. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/treatment/understanding-your-diagnosis/types-of-treatment/radiation-therapy.html [9] American Cancer Society. (2021). Immunotherapy. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/treatment/understanding-your-diagnosis/types-of-treatment/immunotherapy.html [10] American Cancer Society. (2021). Merkel cell carcinoma: Prognosis and survival rates. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/merkel-cell-carcinoma/detection-diagnosis-staging/prognosis-and-survival-rates.html
- The rise in Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) diagnoses in the United States, a potentially fatal skin cancer, has increased by 95% between 2000 and 2013.
- Given its shared traits with nerve and hormone-producing cells, MCC is classified as neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin.
- It's crucial for people diagnosed with MCC to find an oncology specialist with experience in this disease and work with a dermatopathologist for effective treatment.
- Prevention measures for MCC, a medical-condition primarily affecting the skin, include limiting UV exposure, regular skin examinations, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle through diet, exercise, and quitting smoking.
