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Updated: Aug 7, 2026
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Patient Derived Cell Culture and Isolation of CD133+ Putative Cancer Stem Cells from Melanoma
Published on: March 13, 2013
Merkel cell carcinoma in South East Scotland, 1993-2003
L A Mills1, A J Durrani, J D Watson
1Department of Plastic Surgery, St John's Hospital, Livingston, Edinburgh, UK.
Summary
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare skin cancer. This study found MCC incidence in Caucasians and highlighted surgery as the primary treatment, noting challenges with adjuvant therapy in elderly patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but aggressive skin cancer.
- Understanding its incidence and distribution is crucial for public health.
- This study focuses on a Caucasian population with predominantly skin type I.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence and distribution of MCC in a specific Caucasian population.
- To review the management strategies employed for MCC.
- To assess patient outcomes following treatment for MCC.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case identification via regional pathology database.
- Analysis of 20 MCC cases diagnosed between 1993 and 2003.
- Review of management and outcomes at a regional plastic surgery unit.
Main Results:
- MCC incidence was 0.133 per 100,000 annually in this Caucasian cohort.
- Most patients (80%) presented with stage IA disease, primarily on the head and neck.
- Surgery, mainly wide local excision, was the primary treatment; adjuvant therapy was limited.
Conclusions:
- Surgical intervention is the cornerstone of Merkel cell carcinoma management.
- Adjuvant therapies, especially chemotherapy, pose challenges in frail, elderly MCC patients.
- Further research into optimizing treatment for elderly MCC patients is warranted.
