Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a very aggressive skin cancer(please see my two previous blogs:
"Merkel Cell Carcinoma,"and Merkel cell carcinoma-a blood test to predict spread" posted on 04/13/2014.
The incidence of MCC has increased markedly by 95 % during the past decade as compared to
malignant melanoma (57 %) and all solid tumors (15 %).
Current estimates are for about 2500 new cases in the USA yearly and increase to 3250 cases
annually by 2025. Much of this increase is attributed to an older population,especially the aging of the
Baby Boomers.
MCC is not only very prone to spread internally(ie,metastasize) but can be very difficult to diagnose
even by astute clinicians since it can appear simply as a firm red,purple or even skin-colored lump or
bump which could easily be mistaken for a cyst or blocked pore or hair follicle.
Merkel cell carcinoma is caused in part by exposure to the sun and is found on the head or
neck in about 50 % of cases and on the extremities in about 40 % of patients.
And, merkel cell carcinoma is aggressive and has a strong tendency to recur,to spread
to regional lymph nodes and to metastasize.
So,early detection is vital since when caught early the chance of cure increases dramatically
and is better than 90 %.
An exciting new development in the treatment of metastatic MCC is the first FDA approved
treatment for adults and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older,including those who have not
yet received chemotherapy.
The medication called Avelumab is another advance in cancer treatments called biologics
or. monoclonal antibodies which help the body's immune system to fight the cancer.
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