Overview

Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare and aggressive form of skin cancer that develops from Merkel cells, which are involved in the sense of touch. This cancer typically appears as a fast-growing, painless lump on sun-exposed areas of the skin, such as the face, neck, or arms. Merkel cell carcinoma is more dangerous than many other skin cancers because it tends to grow quickly and spread to other parts of the body if not treated early.

Symptoms

Symptoms often develop rapidly and may be mistaken for less serious skin conditions in the early stages.

Common symptoms may include

  • A firm, painless, red or purple skin nodule

  • Rapidly growing lump on sun-exposed skin

  • Shiny or dome-shaped skin lesion

  • Lesion that may bleed or ulcerate as it enlarges

  • Swollen lymph nodes near the affected area in advanced stages

Causes

Merkel cell carcinoma is caused by uncontrolled growth of Merkel cells due to genetic damage.

Known causes include

  • Long-term exposure to ultraviolet radiation from sunlight or tanning beds

  • Infection with Merkel cell polyomavirus

  • DNA damage in skin cells leading to abnormal cell growth

The exact trigger for these cellular changes is not always clear.

Risk Factors

Certain individuals have a higher risk of developing Merkel cell carcinoma.

Key risk factors include

  • Older age, especially over 60 years

  • Fair skin and light-colored eyes

  • Excessive sun exposure or history of sunburns

  • Weakened immune system due to illness or medications

  • History of other skin cancers

Complications

Merkel cell carcinoma can lead to serious complications due to its aggressive nature.

Possible complications include

  • Rapid spread to nearby lymph nodes

  • Metastasis to distant organs such as the lungs, liver, or bones

  • Recurrence of cancer after treatment

  • Reduced survival if diagnosis and treatment are delayed

Prevention

While Merkel cell carcinoma cannot always be prevented, certain measures may help reduce the risk.

Preventive strategies include

  • Protecting skin from excessive sun exposure

  • Using broad-spectrum sunscreen regularly

  • Wearing protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses outdoors

  • Avoiding tanning beds

  • Performing regular skin self-examinations

  • Seeking medical evaluation for new or changing skin lesions

Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial for improving outcomes in people with Merkel cell carcinoma.

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