Merkel Cell Carcinoma: A Rare and Underdiagnosed Entity

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Dermatology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare, aggressive neuroendocrine skin tumor with rising incidence.
• MCC predominantly affects older individuals, accounting for less than 1% of skin malignancies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize clinical presentation, treatments, and outcomes for MCC patients.
• To increase clinical awareness for early MCC recognition and diagnosis.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study of 17 MCC patients at Shaare Zedek Medical Center (2015-2022).
• Analysis of demographic, epidemiological, clinical, and pathological data.

Main Results:

• The cohort (mean age 70.06) showed predominantly female patients and Jewish origin.
• Common comorbidities included hypertension (64.7%) and diabetes (35.3%).
• 29.4% had lymph node involvement, and 23.5% presented with metastatic disease; ischemic heart disease correlated with lower survival (P=0.009).

Conclusions:

• The study identified unique MCC characteristics, including female predominance and a slightly younger average age at diagnosis.
• The 2-year survival rate was 82%, underscoring the critical role of early detection and diagnosis in improving patient outcomes.