Merkel cell carcinoma

Cell Mol Life Sci. 2009 Jan;66(1):1-8. doi: 10.1007/s00018-008-8483-6.

Abstract

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a highly aggressive neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin. More than one-third of MCC patients will die from this cancer, making it twice as lethal as malignant melanoma. Despite the fact that MCC is still a very rare tumor, its incidence is rapidly increasing; the American Cancer Society estimates for 2008 almost 1,500 new cases in the USA. These clinical observations are especially disturbing as the pathogenesis of MCC is not yet fully understood; however, a number of recent reports contribute to a better understanding of its pathogenesis. Here we describe findings regarding the role of Wnt, MAPK and Akt signaling as well as possible aberrations in the p14ARF/p53/RB tumor suppressor network in MCC. Most important, and possibly with high impact on future therapeutic approaches is the demonstration that a polyomavirus has frequently integrated in the genome of the MCC cells prior to tumor development.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Carcinoma, Merkel Cell / epidemiology
  • Carcinoma, Merkel Cell / etiology*
  • Carcinoma, Merkel Cell / metabolism
  • Carcinoma, Merkel Cell / pathology
  • Humans
  • Polyomavirus / isolation & purification
  • Polyomavirus / pathogenicity
  • Signal Transduction
  • Skin Neoplasms / epidemiology
  • Skin Neoplasms / etiology*
  • Skin Neoplasms / metabolism
  • Skin Neoplasms / pathology