Merkel-cell carcinoma
Merkel-cell carcinoma
Merkel-cell carcinoma (pronunciation: /ˈmɜːrkəl ˌsɛl kɑːrˈsɪnoʊmə/) is a rare and aggressive type of skin cancer that usually appears as a flesh-colored or bluish-red nodule, often on your face, head or neck.
Etymology
The term "Merkel-cell" is named after the German scientist Friedrich Sigmund Merkel who first described these cells in 1875. "Carcinoma" is derived from the Greek words "karkinos" meaning crab and "oma" meaning tumor, referring to a cancer that begins in the skin or in tissues that line or cover internal organs.
Symptoms
Merkel-cell carcinoma typically appears as a single painless lump on sun-exposed skin. The lump is usually firm and the color can vary, but it is often red, blue or skin-colored. Other symptoms may include rapid growth of the lump and the presence of lymph nodes that are enlarged and not painful.
Causes
The exact cause of Merkel-cell carcinoma is not known. However, it is believed to start when a Merkel cell becomes altered. Merkel cells are a type of cell in the top layer of the skin (the epidermis). They are connected to the nerve endings in the skin that are responsible for the sense of touch.
Risk factors
Risk factors for Merkel-cell carcinoma include age, exposure to sunlight, a weak immune system, and a history of other skin cancers.
Treatment
Treatment options for Merkel-cell carcinoma include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. In some cases, a combination of these treatments may be used.
Related terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Merkel-cell carcinoma
- Wikipedia's article - Merkel-cell carcinoma
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