Merkel Cell Carcinoma Signs and Symptoms

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a relatively uncommon and aggressive form of non-melanoma skin cancer. It results from the uncontrolled growth of touch receptor cells (Merkel cells) in the outermost layer of the skin. Approximately 80% of cases are traced to Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCP). However, the exact mechanisms by which MCV contributes to the development of Merkel cell carcinoma are not fully understood. Like most types of skin cancer, MCC often develops in areas of the body that are regularly exposed to natural or artificial sources of ultraviolet (UV) light, such as sunlight and tanning beds.

Usually, Merkel cell carcinoma treatment involves a combination of surgery and radiation therapy. Depending on the stage and extent of the cancer, chemotherapy or immunotherapy may be considered as well. Early detection and treatment are essential to achieving the best possible outcome.

Early warning signs of Merkel cell carcinoma

MCC often appears as a painless, firm, shiny bump or nodule on the skin. The lesion may resemble a cyst, pimple or another noncancerous skin growth, making it challenging to differentiate from other skin conditions without a biopsy. While Merkel cell carcinoma lesions can develop anywhere on the body, they are most often found in sun-exposed areas of skin.

Common symptoms of Merkel cell carcinoma

The symptoms of MCC are primarily visual. Like most other skin cancers, Merkel cell carcinoma lesions are usually seen before they are felt.

What does Merkel cell carcinoma look like?

MCC lesions are usually:

• Flesh-colored, pink, purple or reddish-blue
• Approximately 1-5 cm. in diameter (larger lesions are rare)
• Found on sun-exposed parts of the body, such as the face, neck, arms and legs

What does Merkel cell carcinoma feel like?

Many patients who are diagnosed with early-stage MCC report experiencing no pain or discomfort whatsoever.

Symptoms of advanced Merkel cell carcinoma

As MCC advances, the skin lesion may:

• Grow larger
• Become painful or tender
• Ulcerate or bleed

If cancerous cells break away from the primary lesion and spread to nearby tissues or metastasize to distant organs, additional symptoms may develop. The symptoms can vary based on the tissues and organs affected.

Benefit from world-class care at Moffitt Cancer Center

The multispecialty team in Moffitt’s Cutaneous Oncology Program offers a comprehensive range of diagnostic and treatment services for Merkel cell carcinoma. Because Moffitt is a high-volume cancer center, our specialists have extensive experience with all types of skin cancer, including those that are exceedingly rare and challenging to treat. Our patients can also benefit from multiple expert opinions in a single location.

If you would like to learn more about Merkel cell carcinoma signs and symptoms, you can request an appointment with a specialist in our Cutaneous Oncology Program by calling 1-888-663-3488  or submitting a new patient registration form online. We do not require referrals.