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Health Dictionary

Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.

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Merkel cell cancer classification

Introduction

Overview

Overview

Merkel cell carcinoma is classified into 3 subgroups: trabecular, intermediate, and small cell.

Classification

Classification

Histologically, MCC has been classified into three distinct subtypes:[1][2][3]

Subtype Pattern Histology studies
Trabecular type Classic pattern
Intermediate type Solid pattern
  • Most common subtype
  • Compactly arranged cells
  • Cytoplasm is less abundant in the cells
  • Mitotic figures are positive
  • Necrosis is positive
  • Intermediate type may invade the epidermis
  • More aggressive subtype when compared to the trabecular type
Small cell type Diffuse pattern
  • Few high density granules
  • Arises in the dermis
  • Sheets of solid and clusters of cells
  • Mimics other small cell tumours
References

References

  1. ↑ Koljonen V (February 2006). “Merkel cell carcinoma”. World J Surg Oncol. 4: 7. doi:10.1186/1477-7819-4-7. PMC 1382229. PMID 16466578.
  2. ↑ Suster S, Ronnen M, Lin E, Shewach-Millet M (June 1986). “Trabecular carcinoma of the skin simulating metastatic disease”. J Surg Oncol. 32 (2): 73–5. PMID 3724197.
  3. ↑ Johansson L, Tennvall J, Akerman M (August 1990). “Immunohistochemical examination of 25 cases of Merkel cell carcinoma: a comparison with small cell carcinoma of the lung and oesophagus, and a review of the literature”. APMIS. 98 (8): 741–52. PMID 1698390.

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Vamsikrishna Gunnam M.B.B.S [2]