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  • Title: Merkel cell carcinoma: Do you know your guidelines?
    Author: Miles BA, Goldenberg D, Education Committee of the American Head and Neck Society (AHNS).
    Journal: Head Neck; 2016 May; 38(5):647-52. PubMed ID: 26716756.
    Abstract:
    BACKGROUND: Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a cutaneous neuroendocrine malignancy that exhibits clinically aggressive features and is associated with a poor prognosis. The incidence of MCC seems to be increasing for reasons unknown, and is estimated to be 0.32/100,000 in the United States. METHODS: This article will review the current literature and National Comprehensive Cancer Network practice guidelines in the treatment of MCC. RESULTS: Resection of MCC with negative margins remains the mainstay of therapy. Positive nodal disease should be treated with neck dissection and adjuvant radiotherapy. High-risk patients should undergo adjuvant radiotherapy, which improves oncologic outcomes. The role of chemotherapy is less clear and is currently reserved for advanced-stage MCC and palliative therapy. CONCLUSION: The pathogenesis of MCC has recently been impacted with the discovery of the Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV). Research to establish targeted and immunologic therapeutic options are ongoing.
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