Merkel Cell Carcinoma - Diagnosis

What are the tests for Merkel cell carcinoma?¹

Most skin cancers, including Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), are identified due to visible signs or symptoms. If there is an area of concern that might be skin cancer, the doctor will conduct tests to determine if it's cancer or another skin issue. If MCC is diagnosed and there's a possibility it has spread, additional tests will be required.

• Medical History and Physical Exam: The doctor will inquire about symptoms and conduct a physical exam to assess the size, color, texture, and other aspects of the area. Nearby lymph nodes will also be checked, as MCC can spread to them.
• Referral to a Specialist: If skin cancer is suspected, you may be referred to a dermatologist, who specializes in skin diseases. The dermatologist may use a technique called dermatoscopy to examine the area in detail.
• Skin Biopsy: A small sample of the area will be removed and examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis. Different biopsy methods may be used based on the location and type of suspected skin cancer.
• Lymph Node Biopsy: If MCC has spread, nearby lymph nodes may be removed by surgery or a sample taken from them (biopsy) to determine if they contain cancer cells. This can be done using a sentinel lymph node biopsy, needle biopsy, or surgical lymph node biopsy.
• Lab Tests and Imaging: Biopsy samples are sent to a lab for analysis. Special tests may be conducted to confirm the diagnosis. Imaging tests, such as computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET) scans, may be used to assess the spread of cancer within the body. These tests are essential for diagnosing and understanding the extent of Merkel cell carcinoma.