MERKEL-CELL-CARCINOMA - FOLLOW-UP REPORT ON 10 PATIENTS CURRENT DIAGNOSIS AND THERAPY

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare neoplasm of the skin predominant ly found on the head and extremities. Clinically MCC presents as a rap idly growing red or violaceous, dome-shaped, solitary tumor. The clini cal and histological diagnosis of MCC remains difficult. Distinction f rom poorly differentiated small cell primary tumors or metastasis requ ires immunohistochemical analysis and - if available - electron-micros copic studies. We report on the follow-up of 10 patients with MCC trea ted in the past 6 years at our department. In nine patients the tumors were completely removable; in one patient with a large primary tumor of the upper lip no histologically proven complete excision could be p erformed. After a median follow-up of 42 months, local recurrence or l ymph node involvement was observed in three patients. Two patients die d following disseminated metastases, one elderly patient due to cardia c insufficiency. Our observations demonstrate that MCC is a potentiall y aggressive cutaneous tumor. Adequate primary surgical and adjuvant t herapy as well as careful follow-up are mandatory.