Parotid intranodal metastasis of Merkel cell carcinoma: a rare case report

The diagnosis of Merkel cell carcinoma is challenging due to its rarity and early metastatic tendency, often resulting in misdiagnosis or missed diagnosis. Although imaging studies assist in detecting metastatic lesions, parotid gland lymph node metastases may present with nonspecific features, leading to diagnostic confusion with other parotid diseases. Histopathological examination remains essential, and the complex immunohistochemical profile necessitates the use of multiple markers for accurate diagnosis.