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Merkel cell tumour: case reports and review
A K. Saadi1, J J. Danks, I A. Cree
1Adnexal Service, Moorfields Eye Hospital, London, England, UK
Orbit (Amsterdam, Netherlands)
|June 6, 2002
Summary
Merkel cell carcinoma of the eyelid is aggressive. Early surgical treatment and close follow-up are crucial for managing this rare skin cancer.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Ophthalmology
Background:
- Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare, aggressive neuroendocrine skin cancer.
- Eyelid and periocular MCC, often affecting the elderly, presents as a painless nodule.
- Delayed diagnosis of eyelid MCC can lead to poorer outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To illustrate the aggressive nature of eyelid Merkel cell carcinoma.
- To emphasize the importance of early, wide surgical excision and close follow-up.
- To discuss the diagnostic role of rapid paraffin histology versus frozen section.
Main Methods:
- Case study of three patients with eyelid Merkel cell carcinoma.
- Clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment were reviewed.
- Pathology of the cases was analyzed, comparing histology techniques.
Main Results:
- All three patients were female with rapidly growing upper eyelid tumors.
- One case required exenteration due to incomplete clearance on frozen section but not paraffin.
- Two cases developed lymph node involvement post-excision; all patients survived.
Conclusions:
- Eyelid MCC is aggressive, with potential for unusual tarsal involvement.
- Rapid paraffin histology may prevent sampling errors seen with frozen sections.
- Close follow-up is essential due to the invasive nature of MCC.