[Merkel-cell carcinoma. A report of 3 clinical cases]

The finding of Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare but important event owing to the highly aggressive nature of this neoplasm. The authors report three cases of Merkel cell carcinoma with different onsets which were representative of the possible range of clinical symptoms and the prognosis of this pathology. In two cases diagnosis was made by chance, but in the third case a preoperative biopsy was initially performed with subsequent radicalization. The authors examine the diagnostic and therapeutic protocols proposed by other authors and compare them to their personal experience to ensure early diagnosis and radical therapy. Surgery is the obligatory initial choice, followed by radiotherapy and an accurate follow-up. The authors evaluate the use of Octeotride therapy for tumours of neuroendocrine origin and hence its application to Merkel cell carcinoma.