Merkel Cell Carcinoma: A Case Report and Literature Review

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but very aggressive cutaneous malignant tumor of neuroendocrine origin with an increasing incidence rate. Its pathogenesis is linked to Merkel cell polyomavirus, and advanced age, white skin exposed to UV and immunodeficiency are among these risk factors. Its treatment is based on surgery in localized disease and immunotherapy in locally advanced or metastatic disease. We report here the case of a 79-year-old patient, followed at the Oncology-Radiotherapy Department of the Mohammed VI University Hospital in Marrakech, for treatment of a MCC of the lower lip. He benefited from primary surgery followed by adjuvant radiotherapy with an encouraging response. Currently he is under surveillance. Knowledge of this rare malignant tumor will allow health professionals to improve its management by establishing the diagnosis early and indicating adequate treatment, because therapeutic advances in recent years have significantly improved survival.