Merkel Cell Carcinoma of the Lower Extremity A Case Report

Abstract Merkel Cell Carcinoma is a rare, often fatal, neuroendocrine cutaneous malignancy with a highly variable clinical presentation. Due to the rapid progression of the disease, early detection and treatment is vital in survival rates. Here, we report on the case of a 45 year old female whose podiatrist noticed an unusual lesion on her lower left leg and referred her to a dermatologist for work-up. A diagnostic excisional biopsy confirmed the diagnosis, followed by treatment including wide local excision of the primary lesion with subsequent chemotherapy and radiation. At the time of diagnosis, sentinel lymph node biopsy was positive. Due to the increasing prevalence of MCC in the last decade and its propensity to present on the lower extremity, podiatric physicians need to be aware of the clinical presentation and treatment guidelines for this elusive disease.