Download Merkel Cell Carcinoma

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By: Angelica Sell
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* Merkel Cell Carcinoma is a rare type of skin
cancer that usually appears on your face,
head, or neck.
* Also called neuroendocrine carcinoma of the
skin occurs when merkel cells, found on the
top layer of skin very close to nerve endings,
grow out of control.
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* A fast growing, painless nodule on your skin
that may be skin colored or shades of red, blue
or purple.
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* Direct causes are unknown but sun exposure
and having a weak immune system may
heighten the risk of developing it.
* Also age is a main factor in MCC.
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* Surgery
* Radiation Therapy
* Chemotherapy
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* If MCC is left untreated the tumor may spread
to any distant parts of the body such as the
liver, lungs, bones and brain and result in
death.
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1.
About 1,500 cases are found in the U.S. each
year but is rising quickly.
2.
Discovered by doctors only about 40 years
ago.
3.
More than 9 out of 10 people diagnosed with
MCC are over the age 50, and more than 2
out of 3 are older than 70.
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* http://www.merkelcell.org/clinicalPhotos/ind
ex.php
* http://www.webmd.com/cancer/tc/merkel-
cell-carcinoma-treatment-patient-informationnci-pdq-stages-of-merkel-cell-carcinoma
* http://www.riversideonline.com/health_refere
nce/Cancer/DS00802.cfm