What is the risk of Merkel cell carcinoma recurrence beyond pathologically clear margins? An analysis of 926 cases

Abstract

Background and aims: Early-stage melanoma, squamous and basal cell carcinomas have local control rates of >90% with wide excision after pathologically clear margins and >95% with Mohs micrographic surgery. Local control rates for these approaches have not been well defined in Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). Methods: Herein, we analyzed data from 80 patients in a Seattle-based IRB-approved registry who had surgical excision with pathologically clear margins, negative sentinel lymph node biopsy, and no local adjuvant radiation therapy.