Merkel cell carcinoma is a very rare disease in which malignant (cancer)
cells form in the skin.
Merkel cells are hormone-making cells found in the top layer of the skin.
These cells are very close to the nerve endings that receive the sensation
of touch. Merkel cell carcinoma, also called neuroendocrine carcinoma, is
a very rare type of skin cancer that develops when Merkel cells grow out
of control. Merkel cell carcinoma starts most often in areas of skin
exposed to the sun, such as the head, neck, arms, and legs.
Merkel cell carcinoma tends to grow quickly and to metastasize (spread) at
an early stage. It spreads first to nearby lymph nodes and then may spread
to the liver, bone, lungs, brain, or other parts of the body.
Sun exposure and having a weak immune system can affect the risk of
developing Merkel cell carcinoma.
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