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Merkel Cell Carcinoma Treatment in Finland in 1986-2016-A Real-World Data Study
Helka Sahi1, Jenny Their2, Mika Gissler3,4
1Department of Dermatology, Allergology and Venerology, HUS Inflammation Center, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, P.O. Box 160, FIN-00029 HUS Helsinki, Finland.
Cancers
|May 17, 2020
Summary
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) treatment evolved significantly, with more combinations used recently. Combining radiation therapy and excision showed initial survival benefits for MCC patients, but this was lost after adjusting for stage or age.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare skin cancer linked to Merkel cell polyoma virus.
- Immuno-oncology has spurred research into effective MCC treatments.
- Treatment strategies for MCC have diversified over time.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review real-world data on MCC treatments in Finland from 1986-2016.
- To analyze treatment efficacy and identify trends in MCC patient care.
- To establish a baseline for comparing future immunotherapy treatments.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of Finnish Cancer Registry, Hospital Discharge Register, and Cause-of-Death Register data.
- Inclusion of 376 MCC patients diagnosed between 1986 and 2016.
- Cohort divided into 'early' (1986-2004) and 'late' (2005-2016) groups based on diagnosis year.
Main Results:
- Identified 376 MCC patients and 33 distinct treatment entities/combinations.
- Observed an increase in MCC incidence starting in 2005.
- Radiation therapy combined with simple excision showed a survival advantage, which diminished after adjusting for stage or age.
Conclusions:
- Treatment combinations for MCC have become more varied, particularly after 2005.
- The study provides a crucial baseline for evaluating new MCC therapies, including immunotherapy.
- Standardizing MCC treatment in Finland necessitates enhanced awareness and multidisciplinary collaboration.
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