Recurrence Risk Calculator

Background:

This Merkel cell carcinoma Merkel cell carcinoma A skin cancer composed of cells that look microscopically similar to normal Merkel cells present in the skin. MCC was first described in 1972 and only in the 1990s was the CK20 antibody developed to make it easily identifiable by pathologists. Many doctors and patients are not aware of this cancer because of its recent description and relative rarity (~2,000 cases/year in the US--roughly 30 times less common than melanoma). About 40% of patients treated for MCC will experience a recurrence, making it far more aggressive than most other types of skin cancer, including melanoma. recurrence risk calculator is designed to provide a personalized estimate of the risk that MCC will recur.

It takes into account time from initial treatment (typically with surgery and/or radiation therapy radiation therapy The use of radiation to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Merkel cell carcinoma is a highly radiation sensitive cancer in most cases. , as per standard guidelines). While the calculations are based on the date treatment ends, patients should input their date of diagnosis. The calculator automatically adds 90 days, as this is roughly the time that initial treatment ends for most patients.

Disclaimer:

This tool is intended for informational purposes only and has NOT been created or validated for patients in the following situations:

• History of immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) therapy
• Prior clinical recurrence
• Prior or current molecular recurrence (e.g., positive ctDNA or increased AMERK titer)
• Who have had spontaneous regression (likely to have a lower risk than calculated)

Patients in these categories should consult their healthcare provider for individualized assessment and recommendations.