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Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare skin cancer, often appearing as a flesh-colored or bluish-red nodule on the face, head, or neck. It is more common in older individuals and can be caused by long-term sun exposure or a weak immune system. The first sign is a fast-growing, painless tumor. The common Merkel cell polyomavirus is responsible for most cases, but its exact cause remains unknown. Treatment options depend on whether the cancer has spread beyond the skin, with surgery being the main treatment.
What are the risk factors for Merkel cell carcinoma?
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a common skin cancer, with 8 out of 10 people infected with the Merkel cell polyomavirus. Exposure to UV rays, particularly from the sun, is a major risk factor for MCC, as it damages DNA inside skin cells. White people are more likely to develop MCC due to their darker skin, which protects against UV ray damage. People with weakened immune systems are also at higher risk. People with a history of other skin cancers, such as squamous cell carcinoma, also have an increased risk of developing MCC.
How is Merkel cell carcinoma diagnosed?
Merkel cell carcinoma is diagnosed through a physical examination, skin biopsy, and sentinel node biopsy. The doctor examines the skin for unusual moles, freckles, and pigmented spots. A skin biopsy removes the tumor or sample, while a sentinel node biopsy examines the cancer’s spread to lymph nodes. Imaging tests, such as chest X-rays, CT scans, PET scans, and octreotide scans, are also recommended to determine the cancer’s spread to other organs.
What are the treatment options for Merkel cell carcinoma?
Merkel cell carcinoma treatment options vary based on the stage and spread beyond the skin. Common treatments include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. Surgery involves removing the cancerous tumor and surrounding skin, while radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells. Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells, but is reserved for those with cancer that has spread beyond the skin or those unable to undergo surgery or radiation therapy. Immunotherapy helps the immune system fight cancer.
Tell me more about skin cancer.
Skin cancer is a disease characterized by the growth of abnormal cells in skin tissues. It can be benign or cancerous. There are three main types: Basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma. BCC forms in basal cells in the lower epidermis, while SCC forms in squamous cells. Melanoma, a pigment-producing cell, can develop anywhere on the body, but may rarely occur in the mouth, intestines, or eye. Risk factors include excessive UV exposure, light-colored skin, weakened immune system, history of other skin cancers, and age 73. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment. Treatment options depend on the type and stage of cancer, with surgery being the main treatment for non-melanoma skin cancers.