Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare, aggressive form of skin cancer that only affects an estimated 3,000 Americans each year. It develops in Merkel cells, which are found deep in the outer layer of the skin, and causes them to grow uncontrollably. With this particular type of skin cancer, these cells tend to spread to other parts of the body quickly; additionally, the cancer often returns after treatment.
A person with Merkel cell carcinoma may notice one or more signs of the disease. Tumors typically appears on parts of the skin that have been exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, or arms. These tumors can appear as shiny, pearly lumps that are:
- Growing quickly
- Firm, itchy, tender, and sore
- Similar in appearance to a pimple or bug bite
- Approximately the same size as a dime
- Skin-colored, red, purple, or bluish-red
Merkel cell carcinoma usually develops in men who are fair-skinned and older than 50. This form of skin cancer is caused by exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays, such as from the sun or artificial sources like tanning beds, as well as other risk factors such as Merkel cell polyomavirus, a common childhood virus that’s present in roughly 80% of people who develop Merkel cell carcinoma. However, despite this link, most people with the virus do not develop this cancer.
A person’s risk of developing Merkel cell carcinoma may also increase if they have other types of skin cancer, a history of severe sunburns, a weakened immune system, or frequently use light therapy (such as for psoriasis or other skin diseases) or take organ transplant medications.
Dermatologists (specialists who treat skin conditions) are the doctors who primarily diagnose and treat Merkel cell carcinoma and other forms of skin cancer. You can schedule an appointment with a dermatologist at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center by calling (718) 670-5486.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.