Diagnosing Merkel Cell Carcinoma

Diagnosing Merkel Cell Carcinoma: An Overview

Merkel cell carcinoma is often difficult to diagnose because Merkel cells can resemble cells that are found in other types of cancer, especially some types of lung cancer. In order to diagnose a person with Merkel cell carcinoma, the doctor will need to:
 
  • Perform a biopsy
  • Check the skin and examine the lymph nodes for signs of swelling
  • Take a blood cell count
  • Order a liver function test
  • Order a CT (computed tomography) scan.
     
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD