Unusual presentation of a Merkel cell carcinoma

J Am Acad Dermatol. 2000 Feb;42(2 Pt 2):366-70. doi: 10.1016/s0190-9622(00)90114-2.

Abstract

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an uncommon, potentially lethal, cutaneous tumor that mainly occurs in sun-exposed skin of the head and neck area of the elderly. We report a case of MCC presenting as a 2-mm crusted erosion on the nose of an elderly patient, the smallest MCC reported thus far in the literature. The optimal management of MCC has not been clearly established. In view of its high local recurrence rate, predilection to metastasis, and significant mortality, aggressive treatment has been advocated. Identification of this tumor at such a small size posed a management dilemma because of lack of prospective treatment data involving biologic markers of prognostic significance for MCC.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Biopsy
  • Carcinoma, Merkel Cell / diagnosis*
  • Carcinoma, Merkel Cell / surgery
  • Dermatologic Surgical Procedures
  • Humans
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Male
  • Mohs Surgery
  • Nasal Mucosa / metabolism
  • Nose / pathology
  • Nose / surgery
  • Nose Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Nose Neoplasms / surgery
  • Skin / metabolism
  • Skin / pathology
  • Skin Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Skin Neoplasms / surgery