Merkel Cell Carcinoma
Pronunciation: MER-kel cell kar-sin-OH-mah
A rare but aggressive neuroendocrine skin cancer often associated with viral infection. Requires wide excision and aggressive staging due to high metastatic potential.
Full Definition
Merkel cell carcinoma is an uncommon but highly aggressive neuroendocrine malignancy of the skin, often associated with Merkel cell polyomavirus infection. These tumors typically present as rapidly growing, painless, flesh-colored or bluish nodules in sun-exposed areas of elderly or immunocompromised patients. The malignancy demonstrates significant potential for local recurrence and early metastasis to regional lymph nodes and distant organs. Diagnosis requires immunohistochemical confirmation with markers such as CK20 and chromogranin. Treatment involves wide local excision with 1-2cm margins, sentinel lymph node biopsy, and often adjuvant radiation therapy. The acronym AEIOU (Asymptomatic, Expanding rapidly, Immunosuppressed, Older than 50, UV-exposed) helps identify high-risk lesions.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize 'Merkel' as it is named after Friedrich Sigmund Merkel.
In Context
- "Biopsy confirmed Merkel cell carcinoma with positive CK20 and chromogranin staining." — pathology consultation
- "The patient underwent wide excision and sentinel lymph node biopsy for Merkel cell carcinoma." — surgical case report