Radiat Oncol J.
2018 Jun;36(2):163-170. 10.3857/roj.2017.00479.
Merkel cell carcinoma in the community setting: a case report
- Affiliations
-
- 1Department of Radiation Oncology, Carver College of Medicine, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA. Cameron.Callaghan@ucf.edu
- 2Department of Radiation Oncology, Osceola Cancer Center, Kissimmee, FL, USA.
- KMID: 2418877
- DOI: http://doi.org/10.3857/roj.2017.00479
Abstract
- Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare neuroendocrine tumor of the skin initially believed to arise from the Merkel cells. In the community setting a general radiation oncologist may only encounter this pathology in a handful of cases over the course of their career. Due to the low incidence of this malignancy, few prospective randomized controlled trials have ever been conducted and therefore guidelines are based on relatively lower levels of evidence upon which the clinical recommendations are made. We discuss the case of a female in her 90s presenting with a classic MCC primary lesion, as well as satellite lesions proximal to both the primary and the draining regional lymph nodes with no evidence of nodal involvement. Here we discuss the presentation, management, treatment planning, underlying pathology, results and sequelae of treatment. We also review new treatment modalities, and the most current staging systems and guidelines.
