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Updated: Jun 23, 2026

Merkel Cell Polyomavirus Infection and Detection
Published on: February 7, 2019
[Merkel cell carcinoma]
M Wosnitza1, A Bozkurt, D O'Dey
1Klinik für Allergologie und Dermatologie, Universitätsklinikum RWTH Aachen, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074, Aachen, Deutschland. mwosnitza@ukaachen.de
Abstract:
A 67-year old patient developed multiple flesh-colored nodules on the back of his left hand. Histological examination led to the diagnosis of a Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). This highly aggressive primary cutaneous tumor is classified as a neuroendocrine carcinoma. It affects mostly elderly and immunosuppressed patients. Recently, a new polyomavirus (MCPyV) has been detected in about 75-85% of MCC and seems to play an important role in their pathogenesis. This new finding may help to develop new therapeutic options for MCC.
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