Journal of Nepal Medical Association (Jun 2010)

Markel Cell Carcinoma

  • S Wallis,
  • A Durham-hall,
  • N Tondon,
  • TM Brotherstone,
  • BM Shrestha

DOI
https://doi.org/10.31729/jnma.117
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 49, no. 178

Abstract

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Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but aggressive neuroendocrine tumour of the skin with high rate of local recurrence and distant metastatic potential leading to poor outcomes. Merkel cells are normally found as innervated clusters of cells around hair follicles in the basal layer of the epidermis and are thought to function as touch receptors. Here, we describe a case of MCC in a 71-year-old female and provide an up-to-date review of the literature pertinent to the management of MCC. KEYWORDS: merkell cell carcinoma, diagnosis, imunohistochemistry, management.