Page 45 - PowerPoint Presentation
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Merkel cell carcinoma
An aggressive malignant neuroendocrine
tumours arising from dermal Merkel cells, which
is responsible for mechanoreception.
Merkel cell polyomavirus present in 60-80%
Expresses oncoproteins
Immune evasion
Merkel cell polyomavirus Right cheek Merkel cell carcinoma
Phoebus87, Wikimedia
Typically found in elderly females (4 times more
common than in males)
A reddish-blue firm nodule most often on the
head and extremities
Early lymphatic spread
Surgical excision with at least 2-3cm margins is
recommended
Role of adjuvant chemoradiotherapy +/-
immunotherapy (anti-PDL1 inhibitors) to be
discussed in MDT

