Merkel Cell Carcinoma Histology Images

Merkel cell carcinoma is aggressive and associated with high mortality.

Merkel cell carcinoma histology images.

The classic pattern of ck20 expression is dot like and paranuclear. Merkel cells are situated in the top most layer of the skin which is very near to the nerve endings that accept the touch sensation. Merkel cell carcinoma mcc which is also known as neuroendocrine carcinoma or trabecular cancer is a rare cancer that occurs when the growth of merkel cells in the skin is out of control. The tumor developed in an area of extensive sun damage.

This lesion is a merkel cell carcinoma and squamous carcinoma scc collision tumor meaning the two tumors are directly adjacent to each other. To help you spot mcc the following pictures show you diverse ways that it can appear on the skin. If the carcinoma metastasize deeply it is now harder to treat and can lead to death. Merkel cell carcinomas look like red blue or flesh colored lumps that appear on sun exposed areas of the skin.

A barely noticeable 6 mm slightly dermal nodule below the hairline that had been present for about 6 weeks. Collision tumors such as this are caused by sunlight and are almost always negative for the merkel cell polyomavirus. Medical care is often not sought early as these lesions do not appear concerning. Merkel cell carcinoma is an uncommon but very dangerous type of skin cancer it occurs most often in fair skinned individuals over the age of 50.

Looking much like an insect bite testing revealed that the reddish spot on this patient s shin was actually merkel cell carcinoma. Merkel cell carcinoma primarily affects the sun exposed skin of elderly males and preferentially the head and neck region. Merkel cell carcinoma mcc is also called neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin. It goes first to the lymph nodes and travels to adjacent tissues.

56 percent of mccs are believed to be benign when initially examined by physicians who may mistake the tumors for cysts or infected hair follicles. Pictures of merkel cell carcinoma. A red or pink spot. When this carcinoma spreads to the body it metastasizes deep down to the bones and underlying tissues.

Diagnosis and management of merkel cell carcinoma presents distinct challenges including.