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Merkel Cell Carcinoma: An Updated Review Focused on Bone and Bone Marrow Metastases
Biagio Scotti1,2, Elisabetta Broseghini3, Costantino Ricci4
1Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, 40126 Bologna, Italy.
Cancers
|July 12, 2025
Summary
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) commonly spreads to bones and bone marrow, impacting survival. Understanding these metastases is crucial for improving patient care and treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Metastatic Cancer Research
Background:
- Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) has a poor prognosis despite advances in diagnosis and care.
- Bone and bone marrow metastases in MCC are significant but poorly understood, affecting prognosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the characteristics and clinical implications of bone and bone marrow metastases in Merkel cell carcinoma.
- To analyze the incidence, patterns, and outcomes of bone metastases in advanced MCC.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature review was performed using Medline (PubMed) up to January 2025.
- Search terms included "Merkel cell carcinoma" AND ("bone" OR "marrow").
Main Results:
- 20.8% of advanced MCC patients had bone/bone marrow metastases.
- Bone metastases are the third most common site, primarily affecting the axial skeleton.
- Neurological symptoms were common; bone marrow involvement linked to immunosuppression.
Conclusions:
- Bone metastases are a frequent site of spread in advanced MCC, correlating with poorer survival.
- Primary tumor site shows inconsistent association with bone/bone marrow metastasis.
- Future care will integrate guidelines, clinical trial data, and immune checkpoint inhibitors for better disease control.
