What is it?
Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare type of skin cancer that usually appears as a flesh-colored or bluish-red nodule, often on your face, head, or neck. Merkel cell carcinoma is also called Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Skin.
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare, aggressive form of skin cancer with a high risk of recurring and metastasizing, often within two to three years after initial diagnosis.
MCC was named after Merkel cells due to the similar microscopic features; however, recent research suggests that it is unlikely that MCC originates directly from normal Merkel cells.
Anatomy of the skin showing the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue. Merkel cells are in the layer of basal cells at the deepest part of the epidermis and are connected to nerves.
Causes:
It's not clear what causes Merkel cell carcinoma. Merkel cells are located deep in the top layer of the skin. Merkel cells are connected to nerves, signaling touch sensation as “touch receptors.”Researchers recently discovered that a common virus plays a role in causing most cases of Merkel cell carcinoma. The virus, Merkel Cell Polyomavirus lives on the skin and doesn't cause any signs or symptoms. Given that the virus is prevalent and Merkel cell carcinoma is sporadic, it's likely that other risk factors play a role in the development of this cancer.
Risk Factors:
Some factors that may increase your risk of Merkel Cell Carcinoma include;
A weak immune system – People with weakened immune systems — including those with HIV infection, those taking drugs that suppress the immune response, or those with chronic leukemias — are more likely to develop Merkel cell carcinoma.
Older age – Your risk of Merkel cell carcinoma increases as you age. This cancer is most common in people older than age 50, though it can occur at any age.
Light skin color – Merkel cell carcinoma usually arises in people who have light-colored skin. Whites are much more likely to be affected by this skin cancer than blacks.
Excessive exposure to natural or artificial sunlight – Being exposed to ultraviolet light, such as the light that comes from the sun or from tanning beds, increases your risk of Merkel cell carcinoma. The majority of Merkel cell carcinomas appear on skin surfaces frequently exposed to the sun.
Prevention:
Exposure to sunlight hasn't been proven to be the cause of Merkel skin carcinoma, it is still considered a risk factor. Reducing the exposure may reduce the risk of skin cancer and this can be done by;
Avoid the sun during peak hours – Avoid sun exposure as much as possible during the strongest sunlight hours of the day — typically from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Apply sunscreen liberally and often – Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, even on cloudy days. Apply sunscreen generously, and reapply every two hours — or more often if you're swimming or perspiring.
Watch for changes – If you notice a mole, freckle or bump that's changing in size, shape or color, talk to your doctor. Most skin nodules never become cancer, but catching cancer in its early stages increases the chances that treatment will be successful.
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