Merkel Cell Carcinoma: Review : Advances in Anatomic Pathology

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Merkel Cell Carcinoma

Review

Pulitzer, Melissa P. MD; Amin, Bijal D. MD; Busam, Klaus J. MD

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Advances in Anatomic Pathology 16(3):p 135-144, May 2009. | DOI: 10.1097/PAP.0b013e3181a12f5a

Abstract

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is synonymous with primary cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma. It tends to affects elderly whites, but there is also an increased incidence among immunosuppressed patients. The recent identification of a novel polyomavirus associated with the tumor has stimulated renewed interest in its pathogenesis. MCC tends to show classic histologic features of a neuroendocrine carcinoma and is often positive for CK20, but nonclassic cytologic findings and unusual immunophenotypes may be observed and can lead to a diagnostic confusion. MCC needs to be distinguished from other primary cutaneous tumors with a small cell appearance and metastatic tumors. Surgical excision is the treatment of choice, but radiation therapy has also found to be effective. Sentinel lymph node biopsy has become an integral part of the staging of patients with MCC.

© 2009 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.

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