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Merkel cell carcinoma: changing incidence trends
1Department of Surgery, McMaster University, Juravinski Regional Cancer Center, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. nicole.hodgson@hrcc.on.ca
Journal of Surgical Oncology
|December 22, 2004
Summary
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) incidence has tripled between 1986 and 2001, with the elderly being most affected. Further research is needed to understand the causes and identify high-risk groups for this rare skin cancer.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Epidemiology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive skin cancer.
- Understanding incidence trends is crucial for public health and clinical management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define the incidence trends of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) from 1986 to 2001.
- To analyze age-specific, gender-specific, and regional incidence rates.
- To identify demographic groups with higher MCC risk.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program to identify MCC cases.
- Calculated age-adjusted, gender-specific, age-specific, stage-specific, and regional incidence rates.
- Employed linear regression to determine the Estimated Annual Percent Change (EAPC) in incidence.
Main Results:
- A total of 1,124 MCC cases were identified between 1986 and 2001.
- MCC incidence increased significantly, with an EAPC of 8.08% (95% CI: 6.29, 9.90, P < 0.05).
- Incidence rates were highest in the elderly, particularly in the 85+ age group (4.28 per 100,000).
Conclusions:
- MCC incidence rates have tripled over the study period.
- The elderly population exhibits the highest incidence rates of MCC.
- Further research into MCC etiology and high-risk populations is warranted.