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Merkel cell carcinoma
1Department of Dermatology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
Summary
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive skin cancer with high recurrence rates. Early diagnosis and wide surgical excision, potentially using Mohs surgery, are crucial for improving patient survival outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Dermatology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive skin cancer with a poorer prognosis than malignant melanoma.
- MCC exhibits high local recurrence rates (one-third within one year) and frequent lymphatic/vascular invasion, leading to metastases.
- Survival rates at one, two, and three years are notably poor (88%, 72%, 55%).
Purpose of the Study:
- To enhance awareness regarding the clinical behavior of Merkel cell carcinoma.
- To review current literature and treatment recommendations for MCC.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current scientific publications.
- Analysis of treatment guidelines and outcomes for Merkel cell carcinoma.
Main Results:
- Wide local excision with a 3-cm margin significantly reduces local recurrence compared to 2-cm margins.
- Two-thirds of patients experiencing local recurrence succumb to the disease.
- Radiation therapy plays a role in achieving local and regional tumor clearance.
Conclusions:
- Prompt diagnosis and surgical excision are essential for improving Merkel cell carcinoma survival.
- Mohs micrographic surgery presents potential advantages for assessing surgical margins.
- Further follow-up studies are needed to evaluate outcomes with Mohs surgery for MCC.