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Merkel cell differentiation in trichoblastoma

G Collina1, V Eusebi, C Capella

  • 1Department of Oncology, Bellaria Hospital, University of Bologna, Italy.

Virchows Archiv : an International Journal of Pathology
|November 10, 1998
PubMed
Summary

Merkel cells (MCs) are abundant in trichoblastomas, unlike their rarity in adult skin. This suggests hair follicle tumors may mimic fetal skin development, where MCs are more common.

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Area of Science:

  • Dermatopathology
  • Oncology
  • Developmental Biology

Background:

  • Merkel cells (MCs) are neuroendocrine cells found in the epidermis.
  • Their presence and role in skin tumors, particularly trichoblastoma, require further elucidation.
  • Understanding MCs in hair follicle neoplasms may offer insights into skin embryogenesis.

Observation:

  • Four cases of trichoblastoma with a significant Merkel cell component (2-20% of tumor cells) were identified using immunohistochemistry (keratin 20, chromogranin A, NSE).
  • Merkel cells were abundant in fetal skin but rare in adult skin.
  • Sebaceous naevus of Jadassohn lesions frequently showed Merkel cells in their epidermal component, while other associated tumors (basal cell carcinoma, syringocystadenoma papilliferum) did not.

Findings:

  • Trichoblastomas exhibit a notable presence of Merkel cells, correlating with their higher prevalence in fetal skin.
  • The distribution of Merkel cells in trichoblastoma and sebaceous naevus of Jadassohn suggests a potential link to hair follicle development.
  • Negative staining for Merkel cell markers in other adnexal tumors associated with sebaceous naevus of Jadassohn highlights the specificity.

Implications:

  • Hair follicle tumors, such as trichoblastoma, may recapitulate aspects of skin embryogenesis.
  • The presence of Merkel cells in trichoblastoma provides a potential marker for understanding hair follicle differentiation.
  • Further research into Merkel cells in skin neoplasms could reveal novel diagnostic or therapeutic targets.

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