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Diagnosis and treatment of Merkel Cell Carcinoma. European consensus-based interdisciplinary guideline.

Authors :
Lebbe C
Becker JC
Grob JJ
Malvehy J
Del Marmol V
Pehamberger H
Peris K
Saiag P
Middleton MR
Bastholt L
Testori A
Stratigos A
Garbe C
Source :
European journal of cancer (Oxford, England : 1990) [Eur J Cancer] 2015 Nov; Vol. 51 (16), pp. 2396-403. Date of Electronic Publication: 2015 Aug 06.
Publication Year :
2015

Abstract

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare tumour of the skin of neuro-endocrine origin probably developing from neuronal mechanoreceptors. A collaborative group of multidisciplinary experts form the European Dermatology Forum (EDF), The European Association of Dermato-Oncology (EADO) and the European Organization of Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) was formed to make recommendations on MCC diagnosis and management, based on a critical review of the literature, existing guidelines and expert's experience. Clinical features of the cutaneous/subcutaneous nodules hardly contribute to the diagnosis of MCC. The diagnosis is made by histopathology, and an incisional or excisional biopsy is mandatory. Immunohistochemical staining contributes to clarification of the diagnosis. Initial work-up comprises ultrasound of the loco-regional lymph nodes and total body scanning examinations. The primary tumour should be excised with 1-2cm margins. In patients without clinical evidence of regional lymph node involvement, sentinel node biopsy is recommended, if possible, and will be taken into account in a new version of the AJCC classification. In patients with regional lymph node involvement radical lymphadenectomy is recommended. Adjuvant radiotherapy might be considered in patients with multiple affected lymph nodes of extracapsular extension. In unresectable metastatic MCC mono- or poly-chemotherapy achieve high remission rates. However, responses are usually short lived. Treatment within clinical trials is regarded as a standard of care in disseminated MCC.<br /> (Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1879-0852
Volume :
51
Issue :
16
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
European journal of cancer (Oxford, England : 1990)
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
26257075
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejca.2015.06.131