A report of 13 cases of Merkel cell carcinoma: Single-center experience and review of the literature

Abstract

Background: There is limited data knowledge of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) in Turkey aside from a few case reports. Objective: The aim of this study was to describe the clinical characteristics, demographic features, therapeutic parameters, and outcome of primary cutaneous MCC cases from Turkey. Methods: Digital medical records of the 13 MCC patients who were followed-up at a tertiary referral center were retrospectively analyzed. Clinic, demographic, tumor characteristics, and survival of the patients were retrieved. Results: Most of our patients were elderly. Female predominance was noticed. The most common primary site of the tumors was the lower extremities. The overall survival was 42 months, 68% at first year, 68% at third years, and 29% at fifth years. Conclusion: This is the first largest report from Turkish population with female predominance, and lower extremity tendency.