Digital Merkel cell carcinoma.
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and biologically aggressive neuroendocrine tumour of the skin. Recent analysis of a surveillance, epidemiology and end results program has shown a statistically significant increase of 8% per year in the age-adjusted rates for MCC of the skin over the past 15 years. MCC commonly presents as a painless, rapidly growing, single red or purple cutaneous nodule. Diagnosis is often delayed until histopathological examination due to the relative rarity of the disease. MCC-specific immunohistochemical markers are available for definitive diagnosis, including anticytokeratin-20-positive stain and thyroid transcription factor-1-negative stains. Because there are no phase III trials to guide management, treatment is often tailored to the individual patient by integrating surgery, radiation and chemotherapy.
Mayo Clinic Scottsdale, Arizona, USA.
Alanna M
AM
Rebecca
Randall O
RO
Craft
Anthony A
AA
Smith
Hand tumour; Merkel cell carcinoma; Ray amputation