Merkel Cell Carcinoma Treatment | I D Cancer Center Lucknow

Overview

Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but aggressive type of skin cancer that begins in Merkel cells — specialized cells located at the base of the skin responsible for touch sensation.
Although uncommon, MCC grows rapidly and can spread to lymph nodes and other organs if not treated early.
At I D Cancer Center, our team provides prompt diagnosis, advanced imaging, biopsy confirmation, immunotherapy, targeted radiotherapy, and full multidisciplinary care to ensure the best possible treatment outcomes.

Who Is at Risk?

Merkel Cell Carcinoma commonly affects:
Adults above 60 years
Fair-skinned individuals
People with long-term sun exposure
Immunocompromised individuals
(HIV, organ transplant recipients, chronic illnesses)
People with a history of other skin cancers
Individuals infected with the Merkel Cell Polyomavirus (MCV)
Though rare, MCC needs urgent evaluation because of its fast-growing nature.

Common Signs & Symptoms

MCC often appears as a painless, firm, fast-growing lump on sun-exposed skin.

Typical features include:

A red, pink, purple, or skin-colored bump
Dome-shaped or shiny lesion
Rapid enlargement over weeks
Lump that may appear bruised
Usually occurs on face, scalp, neck, arms, or legs
New swelling in lymph nodes
Because MCC may resemble a cyst, pimple, or bug bite, early evaluation is critical.

Diagnosis at I D Cancer Center

Accurate diagnosis requires a combination of clinical assessment and advanced testing:
Detailed skin examination
Dermoscopy
Skin biopsy (gold standard)
Immunohistochemistry for MCC markers (CK20, synaptophysin)
Ultrasound of lymph nodes
PET-CT scan for staging
MRI if brain involvement suspected
Sentinel lymph node biopsy
Our expert oncology team ensures timely diagnosis and staging to guide treatment planning.

Treatment Options

Merkel Cell Carcinoma tends to spread early, so treatment must be comprehensive and fast.

1. Surgery

Wide local excision with clear margins
Sentinel lymph node biopsy
Lymph node dissection if nodes are involved

2. Radiation Therapy

Radiotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for MCC.
At I D Cancer Center, we use:
IMRT (Intensity Modulated Radiotherapy)
IGRT (Image Guided Radiotherapy)
VMAT (Rapid Arc therapy)
Highly precise techniques to protect healthy tissues
RT is used after surgery or as the main treatment when surgery is not possible.

3. Immunotherapy

Considered a breakthrough in MCC treatment.
Commonly used immunotherapy drugs include:
Pembrolizumab
Nivolumab
Avelumab
These medications help the immune system destroy cancer cells and are highly effective in advanced or metastatic cases.

4. Chemotherapy

Used less commonly but may be considered in fast-progressing disease or when other therapies are not suitable.

5. Targeted Therapy

Used selectively depending on tumor biology and clinical condition.

Follow-Up & Long-Term Care

Merkel Cell Carcinoma has a high risk of recurrence, especially in the first few years.
We offer a complete survivorship plan:
Regular physical exams
Repeated imaging (USG, PET-CT)
Skin monitoring for new lesions
Lymph node assessments
Immune therapy follow-up
Supportive care and counselling
Guidance on sun protection and skin checks
Our goal is long-term control and high quality of life.

Prevention & Self-Care Tips

Even after treatment, reducing sun exposure helps prevent future skin cancers.
Use sunscreen SPF 30+ daily
Wear protective clothing & hats
Avoid tanning beds
Monitor skin regularly for new changes
Seek evaluation for any fast-growing skin lesion

Why Choose I D Cancer Center?

Expert oncology care led by Dr. Sunil Kumar
Advanced diagnostic tools (biopsy, PET-CT, dermoscopy)
Precision radiotherapy technology (IMRT/IGRT/VMAT)
Expertise in immunotherapy for advanced MCC
Multidisciplinary tumour board for best outcomes
Compassionate, patient-centered environment
Convenient location in Sushant Golf City, Lucknow