Merkel Cell Carcinoma

Abstract

Abstract Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a highly aggressive neuroendocrine skin cancer characterised by early and frequent metastasis resulting in a 5‐year disease‐associated mortality rate of more than 30% for all stages combined. Predisposing factors include immune suppression, chronic sun exposure and advanced age. The carcinogenesis of MCC is associated either with the clonal integration of Merkel cell polyomavirus DNA into the host genome or ultraviolet‐induced DNA mutations; both resulting in similar cellular aberrations. While MCC is still a rare cancer, its incidence is rising. Management of the primary tumour stage includes wide local excision, sentinel lymph node biopsy and adjuvant radiation. The main pillar of management of systemic disease is immunotherapy by immune checkpoint inhibition.