Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), a rare and aggressive neuroendocrine tumour, appears primarily on sun-exposed areas in light-skinned elderly subjects. UV exposure and profound immunosuppression (particularly in a setting of solid organ transplantation, haematological malignancies, HIV) constitute the principal risk factors. The aetiopathogenesis of this cancer is not known, although a polyomavirus involved in the oncogenic process was recently discovered. The carcinogenic effect of ionizing radiation, while not clearly established, has been suspected in rare cases involving the onset of MCC in irradiated zones. We report a new case of case of MCC in a patient previously undergoing radiotherapy. A 59-year-old-man underwent radiotherapy for a Darier-Ferrand dermatofibrosarcoma on the left shoulder and developed MCC at the same site 38 years later. The time between radiotherapy and diagnosis of MCC, its site within the radiation field (radio-dermatitis), the description of similar cases in the literature concerning the onset of MCC in irradiated areas, and the known carcinogenic effects of ionizing radiation all militate strongly in favour of the radiation-induced nature of MCC.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.