Merkel cell carcinoma-case report and literature review

Abstract

Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare, highly malignant, neuroendocrine skin cancer, which is typically seen in elderly people. In up to 80 % of cases the Merkel cell carcinoma is associated with Merkel cell polyomavirus. Further risk factors are UV light exposure and immunosuppression. There is an early lymphogene metastasis, moreover the tumor tends to recurrences. Besides resection of the primary tumor with a sufficient safety margin, therapy also involves adjuvant radiotherapy. Chemotherapy is often reserved for patients with distant metastatic disease.