Merkel Cell Carcinoma
It is the uncommon type of cancer in which there is red or bluish nodule on the skin of head face and neck mostly. It is also known as neuroendocrine carcinoma of skin.
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms include:
- Painless nodule
- Red or bluish color tumor
- Nodules appeared on face neck and head
Causes
Merkel cells are normally present in epidermis the outer layer of the skin. There is assumption that virus Merkel cell polyomavirus may involve in the development of Merkel cell carcinoma.
Complications
Only complication of merkel cell carcinoma is the spread of cancerous cell to the distant side of the body. They usually metastasize to your bones, liver lungs and brain.
Diagnosis
Diagnostic tests include:
- Physical examination to check the condition of skin.
- Biopsy of nodules
- Blood test to check the complete count.
Treatment
Treatment options include:
- Surgery to remove the tumor or cancerous cells to prevent the metastasize.
- Immunotherapy to strong the immune system to fight with cancer