Contemporary Literature Review of Clinical Characteristics and Management of Merkel Cell Carcinoma

Abstract

Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare aggressive, non-melanomatous cutaneous malignancy with rising incidence. It has two distinct etiologies Merkel cell polyomavirus associated and non-associated, usually presents as painless, indurated, solitary violaceous dermal nodules on sun-exposed sites, frequently in the head and neck region followed by extremities. The workup includes dermoscopy, histopathology with immunohistochemical staining, and imaging. Treatment modalities for Merkel cell carcinoma are surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, etc. however, the role of immunotherapy and targeted agents is emerging.