Merkel cell carcinoma mimicking acute leukemia
Jonathan Keow1, Keith F Kwan2, Ben D Hedley2
1DynaLIFE Medical Labs, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
International Journal of Laboratory Hematology
|March 13, 2024
Summary
Metastatic Merkel Cell carcinoma extensively infiltrated the bone marrow. Immunohistochemistry confirmed the malignant neoplasm
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Hematopathology
Background:
- Merkel Cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive neuroendocrine skin cancer.
- Bone marrow metastasis is a sign of advanced disease, impacting prognosis.
Observation:
- Bone marrow aspirate revealed diffuse infiltration by monomorphic cells.
- These cells exhibited scant cytoplasm, high nuclear-to-cytoplasmic ratio, and indistinct nucleoli.
Findings:
- Bone marrow biopsy confirmed extensive infiltration by a malignant neoplasm.
- Immunohistochemistry showed strong, diffuse synaptophysin expression, characteristic of neuroendocrine tumors.
- Findings were consistent with Merkel Cell carcinoma metastasis to the bone marrow.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of bone marrow examination in staging advanced MCC.
- Synaptophysin expression is a key diagnostic marker for neuroendocrine tumors like MCC.
- Accurate diagnosis of bone marrow involvement is crucial for treatment planning and prognosis in Merkel Cell carcinoma.
