HOW IS MERKEL CELL CARCINOMA DIAGNOSED?

The first step to a diagnosis includes a physical exam, examination of health history, a skin exam, or a referral to a dermatologist or other skin specialist. If merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is suspected, a skin biopsy will be completed (the removal of skin cells or tissue to be viewed by a pathologist). Options of skin biopsies include; shave, punch, incisional, or excisional biopsy.

Findings from the diagnostic tests are then used to determine the stage of the cancer, which helps to establish treatment plans and prognosis.

Diagnosing Acral Melanoma

Dermoscopy can be used to help clinicians correctly identify lesions that have a high likelihood of being malignant. It does so by facilitating the visualization of subsurface skin structures which are otherwise not visible to…

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Diagnosing Mucosal Melanoma

When confronted with a suspected mucosal melanoma, it is crucial to differentiate a case of primary melanoma from metastasis. As mucosal melanoma presents with atypical melanocytic features, making this distinction is difficult. The diagnosis of…

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Kimmtrak (tebentafusp)

Kimmtrak (tebentafusp) is a breakthrough new therapy indicated for the treatment of HLA-A*02:01–positive adult patients with uveal melanoma that has spread to other parts of the body or can’t be removed with surgery. KIMMTRAK (tebentafusp) is…

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Questions to Ask Your Doctor

A new diagnosis is a stressful time; shock, anger, and frustration are natural reactions. This often makes it difficult to think straight and understand or assess all of the new information you are receiving. It…

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HOW IS MERKEL CELL CARCINOMA DIAGNOSED?

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Questions to Ask Your Doctor