Merkel cell carcinoma, also called neuroendocrine cancer of the skin, is a rare cancer that develops on or just beneath the skin and in the hair follicles. It usually affects people who are over 70 years of age, and affects men more often than women. The disease is treated through surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. Once Merkel cell carcinoma has spread, it is more difficult to cure.
Merkel Cell Carcinoma: An Overview
Merkel cell carcinoma is also known as neuroendocrine cancer of the skin and trabecular cancer. It is a rare cancer that develops on or just beneath the skin and in the hair follicles.
Who Does Merkel Cell Carcinoma Affect?
Although Merkel cell carcinoma usually affects people who are more than 70 years of age, it can affect people of all ages. The majority of patients with the disease are white, and Merkel cell carcinoma affects more men than women.
Causes of Merkel Cell Carcinoma
- Merkel cell carcinoma can develop quickly in people who have had an organ transplant and are taking drugs to suppress their immune system (immunosuppressives)
- Exposure to arsenic may increase the risk for Merkel cell carcinoma
- Exposure to sunlight may play a role in the development of Merkel cell carcinoma because the disease usually occurs on the face, head, and neck.
Symptoms of Merkel Cell Carcinoma
Merkel cell carcinoma usually appears as firm, painless, shiny skin lumps (nodules) or tumors. The lumps are usually red, pink, or blue, and vary in size ranging from less than a quarter of an inch to more than 2 inches. About half of all Merkel cell carcinomas occur on the sun-exposed areas of the head and neck, and one-third of all Merkel cell carcinomas occur on the arms and legs. However, the disease may also begin on other parts of the body, such as the torso.
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