MCC specialist criteria

Our goal is for everyone fighting 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. to be able to find an MCC specialist to help them through their journey. Given that MCC is rare and its optimal management is different than that of other skin cancers, it is critical that each case be reviewed by a multidisciplinary team including input from surgical oncology, radiation oncology, medical oncology, and dermatology that has significant experience in managing MCC in order to develop a plan for the patient.

MCC specialists listed on www.merkelcell.org are reviewed annually to ensure the accuracy of the list and the ongoing interest of the providers in this rare cancer cancer A term used to describe diseases in which abnormal cells continually divide without normal regulation. Cancerous cells may invade surrounding tissues and may spread to other regions of the body via blood and the lymphatic system. .

We typically list ONE contact per institution. That person acts as a central contact for referral to relevant other disciplines.

Each specialist is encouraged to provide a link to their own relevant website where they may introduce other members of the MCC care team at their institution.

MCC Specialists make their best effort to:

· Help coordinate the timely care of each MCC patient
· Ensure the case is considered by a multidisciplinary team
· Assist in follow up management after initial treatment
· Provide an individualized care plan based on patient’s prognosis prognosis Relates to the outcome, course of a disease, or chance of cure. and wishes
· Stay updated on recent developments in MCC management
· Ensure there is a designated backup person at their site when they are unavailable

If you are a provider that agrees with the criteria above, and is interested in being included as an MCC Specialist on our website, please complete this form:

We will touch base with you upon receipt of your request.

Thank you to all MCC specialists for your continued dedication to improving the care of patients!