Merkel Cell Carcinoma: Symptoms, Risks & Treatment

Merkel cell carcinoma, also known as neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin, is a rare type of skin cancer. It affects the Merkel cells found in the epidermis (outer layer of your skin). This condition starts with a painless bump on the face and spreads rapidly to other body parts.

Prolonged exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays, age factors, viral infections, and a weak immune system are some common triggers of this condition. Though the first symptoms are usually noticed on the face, a painless bump can develop on any part exposed to the sun in some people. The treatment for this condition depends on the stage of the cancer.

What You Should Know About Merkel Cell Carcinoma

The common symptoms of Merkel Cell Carcinoma include the following:

• Formation of painless bumps on the face, eyelids, neck, arms, and other sun-affected areas.

• Bumps more common on the legs of people with dark skin.

• Dome-shaped, itchy bumps.

• Bumps may resemble insect bites but may appear in shades of skin colour: red, purple, or blue.

• Bumps looking very tender and causing soreness to the skin.

• Development of bumps in other parts of the body in quick succession after spotting the first bump.

Who is more prone to this condition?

• People with less melanin in the skin

• Prolonged exposure to the harmful UV rays of the sun

• Prolonged use of indoor tanning beds

• Weak immune systems

• Pre-existing cases of other types of skin cancer

• People aged 50 and above

When you notice the development of these bumps, you should visit a dermatologist immediately. A skin biopsy test and thorough checking of your swollen lymph nodes will lead to a clear diagnosis of this condition. Treatment of neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin involves the surgical removal of the cancerous tumours, but chances of relapse are common.

Conclusion

Reducing your exposure to sunlight, wearing sunscreen when stepping out and stopping the use of tanning beds may reduce your risk of Merkel cell carcinoma. However, you can still be diagnosed with this condition due to viral infections and a weak immune system. health insurance or critical illness insurance provides financial coverage during medical emergencies and for rare diseases.

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