Welcome! Defeating Merkel cell carcinoma begins here.
The critical first step is to find a Merkel cell carcinoma specialist.
It is critical that each case be reviewed by a multidisciplinary team, including surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists, medical oncologists, and dermatologists with significant experience in managing MCC, in order to develop a plan for the patient.
To find healthcare professionals experienced with Merkel cell carcinoma, start with our list of verified specialists.
Find a SpecialistMake sure your primary care team is knowledgeable and takes action.
Merkel cell carcinoma is rare, and it's common for many medical professionals to be unsure of where to start. When a diagnosis occurs, it is imperative that your medical team is knowledgeable and able to carry out an MCC specialist's plan.
Our clinical team recommends that all healthcare providers follow the NCCN guidelines for MCC to bring them up to speed on MCC and how to care for MCC patients.
Get the GuideConsider joining a patient-based group
A diagnosis of Merkel cell carcinoma is a life-changing experience. Support from others—in the form of advice, recommendations for local healthcare providers, or sharing personal victories—can help ease the burden many MCC patients and their families feel.
We encourage you to make connections; it’s been proven to help.
Get SupportThe latest advancements in treatment
Merkel Cell Polyomavirus Antibody Titer Predicts Recurrence- Free Survival
The Merkel virus antibody test (AMERK) is being increasingly used around the US and the world. This team at University of Tennessee in Knoxville carried out a 7 year study on 51 patients and found that it was predictive of outcomes. They found that patients who produce these antibodies had a signifi...
Scientific and clinical developments in Merkel cell carcinoma: A polyomavirus-driven,often-lethal skin cancer
This review led by Dr. Tomoko Akaike, covers some of the underlying biology of MCC, with a focus on MCC clinical management now and into the future.
DNA-methylation patterns imply a common cellular origin of virus- and UV-associated Merkel cell carcinoma
There has been a long-standing controversy as to what type of cell, when infected with the Merkel cell polyomavirus, ultimately turns into what we know as Merkel cell carcinoma. Some studies indicate the cell of origin might be fibroblasts from the dermis, keratinocytes from the epidermis, or even B...