- 2025, Volume 83 - Number 4
- Published: July 7, 2025
Merkel cell carcinoma and delayed diagnosis: a clinical alert
Mariana A. Santos 1, Julia C. K. El Dib 1, Bruna M. Batista 1, Fernanda R. de O. Mattar 1, Paula P. Pretti 1, João R. Antônio 1, Mariana S. Kagohara 1
1 Department of Dermatology, Hospital de Base, Faculdade de Medicina de São José do Rio Preto, São José do Rio Preto, São Paulo, Brazil
Mariana A. Santos, Julia C. K. El Dib, Bruna M. Batista, Fernanda R. de O. Mattar, Paula P. Pretti, João R. Antônio, Mariana S. Kagohara
La información completa de afiliaciones y autor de correspondencia está disponible en la versión original en PDF.
*Correspondence: Bruna M. Batista, Email not available
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but highly aggressive neuroendocrine skin cancer with a mortality rate higher than melanoma. It primarily affects elderly patients with risk factors such as chronic sun exposure, immunosuppression, or previous skin cancers. The case describes an 80-year-old male with multiple ulcerated skin lesions and widespread metastasis, diagnosed at an advanced stage (stage IV). Due to the disease’s extent, curative treatment was not possible, and palliative chemotherapy was initiated but discontinued due to severe toxicity. This case highlights the rapid progression of MCC, the challenges in early diagnosis, and the critical importance of timely recognition to allow for more effective treatment and improved patient survival.
