Merkel Cell Tumor

Merkel cell carcinoma is a type of skin cancer in which tiny bumps appear on the face, neck or head. This form of carcinoma spreads quickly to other parts of the body, so diagnosis and treatment are important in early stages. There is a higher risk of development with the elderly, and overexposure to the sun increases the chance of Merkel cell carcinoma.

Symptoms

• The initial sign of Merkel cell carcinoma is the presence of small nodules that grow on the skin. They normally form in the facial area, but they can develop in other areas too. The nodules are painless, so many patients disregard the growths.

Risk Factors

• Genetic mutations are the cause for these cancerous tumors, so overexposure to the sun, which causes skin cells to constantly divide and replicate, can increase your risk. Age is also a risk factor, and people with weakened immune systems also have a higher chance of developing Merkel cell carcinoma.

Diagnosis

• Your doctor will take a biopsy in order to make a diagnosis. He also will take blood tests to detect abnormal enzyme levels. Your doctor will send the biopsy samples to a laboratory to detect cancerous growths.

Treatment

• Your doctor will surgically remove the nodules. She also will remove skin cells surrounding the growth. This ensures the cells surrounding the area aren't damaged as well.

Prevention

• Although there is no specific prevention method, you can lower your risk of developing Merkel cell carcinoma through diet, exercise and avoidance of the sun. The sun's UV rays cause damage to skin cells, which is a leading cause for carcinomas.