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About the Disease
An overview of Merkel cells, Merkel cell carcinoma, symptoms, and causes.
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Testing & Diagnosis
The diagnosis of MCC is made with a skin biopsy, which is examined under the microscope.
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Treatment
There are multiple treatments used for MCC, and treatment is generally based on stage of the disease.
Learn More →- Prognosis
Disease recurrence and survival are two critical measures of prognosis.
Learn More →- Helpful Resources
Explore resources about Merkel cell carcinoma, including frequently asked questions and our list of verified specialists.
Learn More → - Prognosis
Welcome! Defeating Merkel cell carcinoma begins here.
We are physicians and researchers who have cared for over 800 patients with MCC, a rare and aggressive skin cancer. We are committed to finding innovations that will fight it and to helping patients & their physicians find the resources needed to beat MCC.
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 Specialist
Make 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.
View the GroupsLearn More
About The Disease →The authoritative source on Merkel cell carcinoma.
Last updated:
March 21, 2019
About the Disease
- What is a Merkel cell?
- What is Merkel cell carcinoma?
- Symptoms & appearance of Merkel cell carcinoma
- Causes of Merkel cell carcinoma
Testing & Diagnosis
Created in partnership with:
Seattle Multidisciplinary MCC Team, University of Washington MCC Research, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, and the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance/Skin Cancer