Merkel Cell Carcinoma of the Skin and Mucosa: Report of 12 Cutaneous Cases with 2 Cases Arising from the Nasal Mucosa

Abstract

In our series, local control of the primary MCC was achieved in 70% of patients (7 of 10) using combined Mohs excision and radiation. Two recurrences had primary tumors larger than 3.5 cm in diameter, while the other case was nonresectable by Mohs surgery. Tumor size appeared to determine the degree of local control. When the postoperative Mohs defect was less than 3.0 cm in diameter, local and regional control appeared to be more favorable. When the primary facial MCC is relatively small, removal by Mohs surgery followed by radiation was effective, therapeutic, and less disfiguring. Mucosal MCC is rare and may occur as a long-term sequelae after radiation therapy to the skin.