WHAT DOES MERKEL CELL CARCINOMA LOOK LIKE?
Some signs of merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) are:
- A single firm, dome-shaped or raised lump
- A pink, red, or purple lump or bump on the skin
- Lumps that are typically painless. Despite being painless, there is the chance that they may turn into ulcers or sores or the skin on top of the growth breaks and bleeds.
- It is fast growing
- Enlarged nearby lymph nodes
- Can often be mistaken for a sore, insect bite, cyst, stye, or pimple
Image provided by https://dermnetnz.org/topics/merkel-cell-carcinoma
Image provided by https://merkelcell.org/resources/pictures-of-merkel-cell-carcinoma/
It is essential to have any new, growing, or changing lesions or growths on your skin checked by a physician. As for all cancers, the earlier it is detected, the easier it is to treat. This is even more important for MCC, which has a tendency to grow quickly and has a high likelihood of spreading to other parts of the body (metastases).
Where is it found?
MCC is commonly found on skin that has high exposure to the sun, such as the head or neck, but can also occur on other areas of the skin. In very rare cases it can also be seen in the esophagus and inner nose/nasal mucosa. For people with skin of colour, MCC often presents on the lower legs, and can present on the trunk in younger adults. Despite this, it is important to remember that MCC can develop anywhere on the body.
Does Merkel cell carcinoma hurt?
While MCC is often painless, it can feel sore and tender. Some people say the growth itches. Many people who develop MCC are otherwise healthy. If you have certain risk factors, you have a greater risk of getting this skin cancer.