Skin Cancer (Cutaneous Oncology) Program

Merkel cell carcinoma

Merkel cell carcinoma | Incidence and Risk Factors | Staging | Symptoms and diagnosis | Treatment

What is Merkel cell carcinoma?

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a very rare cancer of the skin that is primarily seen in the older Caucasian population. These tumors develop from cells in the superficial layer of the skin (epidermis) that function as mechanoreceptors (sensors of changes in pressure or distortion).

Any new lesion on the skin that appears, grows, or is symptomatic should be promptly evaluated by a physician.


This page was last updated on: January 22, 2008.