Merkel cell carcinoma in a 17-year-old boy, report of a highly aggressive fatal case and review of the literature

Abstract

Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare tumor frequently involving the skin with an aggressive behavior and fatal outcome. It occurs mostly in the caucasian race between 60-80 years of age and it is rare in children. Herein we report our experience with a highly aggressive fatal Merkel cell carcinoma in an immunocompetent 17-year-old boy. Its characteristics and treatment modalities will be also discussed.