Important!
What are the signs and symptoms of Merkel cell carcinoma?
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) typically begins on sun-exposed skin areas like the face, neck, arms, and legs, but it can appear anywhere on the body. It often starts as a single shiny, painless, pink, red, or purple bump. Occasionally, the skin over the bump breaks open and bleeds. These tumors grow rapidly and may spread to nearby skin or lymph nodes, which can become visible or felt as lumps under the skin, typically in the neck or under the arm.1
Technical Terms
Since MCC is rare and can resemble other more common skin issues, doctors may not initially suspect it. Thus, the diagnosis often occurs only after cells from the growth are examined under a microscope. It's crucial to have any new, changing skin lumps, bumps, or spots examined by a doctor promptly. Early detection of any type of skin cancer makes treatment potentially easier.
Learn more about Merkel cell carcinoma
MCC Key statistics and risks
Learn about Merkel cell carcinoma
Diagnosing MCC
- Merkel Cell Skin Cancer Early Detection, Diagnosis, and Staging. American Cancer Society. Updated October 9, 2018. Accessed November 7, 2024. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/merkel-cell-skin-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging.html
- NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms. Accessed November 11, 2024. https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/sign
- NCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms. Accessed November 11, 2024. https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/symptom