Prognostic factors in Merkel cell carcinoma: analysis of 240 cases

Merkel-cell carcinoma: ESMO-EURACAN Clinical Practice Guideline for diagnosis, treatment and follow-up

•This ESMO Clinical Practice Guideline provides key recommendations for managing Merkel-cell carcinoma (MCC). •Recommendations are based on available scientific data and the multidisciplinary group of experts’ collective opinion. •The guideline covers clinical and pathological diagnosis, staging and risk assessment, treatment and follow-up. •Algorithms for the management of locoregional and inoperable/metastatic disease are provided. •A multidisciplinary team with a high level of expertise in MCC should diagnose and make decisions about therapy.

The role of micrometastasis in high-risk skin cancers

The propensity to metastasize is the most important prognostic indicator for solid cancers. New insights into the mechanisms of early carcinogenesis have revealed micrometastases are generated far earlier than previously thought. Evidence supports a synergistic relationship between vascular and lymphatic seeding which can occur before there is clinical evidence of a primary tumour. Early vascular seeding prepares distal sites for colonisation while regional lymphatics are co-opted to promote facilitative cancer cell mutations. In response, the host mounts a global inflammatory and immunomodulatory response towards these cells supporting the concept that cancer is a systemic disease. Cancer staging systems should be refined to better reflect cancer cell loads in various tissue compartments while clinical perspectives should be broadened to encompass this view when approaching high-risk cancers. Measured adjunctive therapies implemented earlier for low-volume, in-transit cancer offers the prospect of preventing advanced disease and the need for heroic therapeutic interventions. This review seeks to re-appraise how we view the metastatic process for solid cancers. It will explore in-transit metastasis in the context of high-risk skin cancer and how it dictates disease progression. It will also discuss how these implications will influence our current staging systems and its consequences on management.

Exploring diagnosis and therapeutic complexities of an aggressive Merkel cell carcinoma: A case report and review of the literature

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive and rare cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma that predominantly affects the sun-damaged skin of the head and neck region, extremities, and trunk of older white individuals. Microscopically, MCC is characterized by nests or sheets of uniform small round blue cells with scant cytoplasm, granular nuclei with a salt-and-pepper chromatin pattern, high proliferative activity, and occasional necrosis. They are usually positive for epithelial and neuroendocrine markers, particularly for cytokeratin 20 and AE1/AE3 in a paranuclear dot-like staining. We herein contribute by reporting a case of MCC affecting the auricular pavilion of a 66-year-old female patient from Campinas, Brazil. Additionally, a review of the current literature is also included to analyze all the cases that have been reported in the English-language literature, totalizing 27 cases of MCC on the external ear. The 5-year overall survival rate for individuals with localized MCC is 50% and the most common treatment choice is the combination of surgery with adjuvant radiotherapy and sentinel lymph node biopsy.

Avelumab for Advanced Merkel Cell Carcinoma: Global Real-World Data on Patient Response and Survival

Introduction

Avelumab is a programmed cell death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) inhibitor approved by the Food and Drug Administration for advanced Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). Studies conducted in real-world settings have shed light on its effectiveness and safety in clinical settings.

Areas Covered

Real-world studies on avelumab for MCC from North and South America, Europe, and Asia have been presented in this review. Most studies are on patients over age 70 and have a male-predominant sex ratio. Overall response rates range from 29.1% to 72.1%, (disease control rate: 60.0-72.7%; complete response rate: 15.8%-37.2%; partial rate: 18.2-42.1%; stable disease: 7.1-30.9%; progressive disease: 7.1-40.0%) and median progression free survival ranges from 8.1 to 24.1 months depending on the population studied. Immunosuppressed patients appear to benefit from avelumab as well, with response rates equivalent to the general population. Patients receiving avelumab as a first-line agent tend to have better outcomes than those using it as a second-line therapy. Fatigue, infusion-related reactions, and dyspnea were some of the most common adverse events identified in real-world studies. Autoimmune hepatitis and thyroiditis were also observed.

Conclusion

The use of avelumab as a safe and effective treatment option for advanced MCC is supported by real-world data, although additional study is required to assess long-term efficacy and safety outcomes.

Survival of Patients With Head and Neck Merkel Cell Cancer: Findings From the Pan-Canadian Merkel Cell Cancer Collaborative

Importance

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma. Due to its relatively low incidence and limited prospective trials, current recommendations are guided by historical single-institution retrospective studies.

Objective

To evaluate the overall survival (OS) of patients in Canada with head and neck MCC (HNMCC) according to American Joint Committee on Cancer 8th edition staging and treatment modalities.

Design, Setting, and Participants

A retrospective cohort study of 400 patients with a diagnosis of HNMCC between July 1, 2000, and June 31, 2018, was conducted using the Pan-Canadian Merkel Cell Cancer Collaborative, a multicenter national registry of patients with MCC. Statistical analyses were performed from January to December 2022.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was 5-year OS. Multivariable analysis using a Cox proportional hazards regression model was performed to identify factors associated with survival.

Results

Between 2000 and 2018, 400 patients (234 men [58.5%]; mean [SD] age at diagnosis, 78.4 [10.5] years) with malignant neoplasms found in the face, scalp, neck, ear, eyelid, or lip received a diagnosis of HNMCC. At diagnosis, 188 patients (47.0%) had stage I disease. The most common treatment overall was surgery followed by radiotherapy (161 [40.3%]), although radiotherapy alone was most common for stage IV disease (15 of 23 [52.2%]). Five-year OS was 49.8% (95% CI, 40.7%-58.2%), 39.8% (95% CI, 26.2%-53.1%), 36.2% (95% CI, 25.2%-47.4%), and 18.5% (95% CI, 3.9%-41.5%) for stage I, II, III, and IV disease, respectively, and was highest among patients treated with surgery and radiotherapy (49.9% [95% CI, 39.9%-59.1%]). On multivariable analysis, patients treated with surgery and radiotherapy had greater OS compared with those treated with surgery alone (hazard ratio [HR], 0.76 [95% CI, 0.46-1.25]); however, this was not statistically significant. In comparison, patients who received no treatment had significantly worse OS (HR, 1.93 [95% CI, 1.26-2.96)].

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of the largest Canada-wide evaluation of HNMCC survival outcomes, stage and treatment modality were associated with survival. Multimodal treatment was associated with greater OS across all disease stages.

Overall Survival After Mohs Surgery for Early-Stage Merkel Cell Carcinoma

Importance

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare cutaneous malignant neoplasm with increasing incidence and high mortality. Although it is accepted that the optimal treatment for localized tumors is surgical, the data surrounding the optimal surgical approach are mixed, and current National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines state that Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) and wide local excision (WLE) can both be used. The current National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines do not advocate a preference for MMS or WLE and suggest that they can be used interchangeably.

Objective

To evaluate the association of surgical approach with overall survival after excision of localized T1/T2 MCC.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study used the National Cancer Database to assess adults with T1/T2 MCC who were diagnosed between January 1, 2004, and December 31, 2018, with pathologically confirmed, negative regional lymph nodes and treated with surgery. The National Cancer Database includes all reportable cases from Commission on Cancer-accredited facilities. Data analysis was performed from October 2022 to May 2023.

Exposure

Surgical approach.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Overall survival.

Results

A total of 2313 patients (mean [SD] age, 71 [10.6] years; 1340 [57.9%] male) were included in the study. Excision with MMS had the best unadjusted survival, with mean (SE) survival rates of 87.4% (3.4%) at 3 years, 84.5% (3.9%) at 5 years, and 81.8% (4.6%) at 10 years vs 86.1% (0.9%) at 3 years, 76.9% (1.2%) at 5 years, and 60.9% (2.0%) at 10 years for patients treated with WLE. Patients treated with narrow-margin excision had similar survival as those treated with WLE, with mean (SE) survival rates of 84.8% (1.4%) at 3 years, 78.3% (1.7%) at 5 years, and 60.8% (3.6%) at 10 years. On multivariable survival analysis, excision with MMS was associated with significantly improved survival compared with WLE (hazard ratio, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.36-0.97; P = .04). High-volume MCC centers were significantly more likely to use MMS over WLE compared with other centers (odds ratio, 1.99; 95% CI, 1.63-2.44; P < .001).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study, the use of MMS (compared with WLE) was associated with significantly improved survival for patients with localized MCC with pathologically confirmed negative lymph nodes treated with surgery. These data suggest that Mohs surgery may provide a more effective treatment for MCC primary tumors than conventional WLE, although the lack of randomization and potential for selection bias in this study highlight the need for future prospective work evaluating this issue.

Lymph Node Metastases from Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer of the Head and Neck

Non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) represents the most common malignancy in the world, comprising exceedingly common lesions such as basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) and rare lesions such as Merkel cell carcinoma. Risk factors are widely recognized and include ultraviolet (UV) light exposure, radiation exposure, immunosuppression, and many others. As a whole, survival and functional outcomes are favorable, but each histopathological subtype of NMSC behaves differently. Treatment regimens for the primary site usually include wide surgical excision and neck dissection in cases of clinically involved metastatic lymph nodes. The elective management of draining nodal basins, however, is a contested topic. Nearly all subtypes, excluding BCC, have a significant risk of lymphatic metastases, and have been studied with regard to sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) and elective neck dissection. To date, no studies have definitively established a true single standard of care, as exists for melanoma, for any of the NMSCs. As a result, the authors have sought to summarize the current literature and identify indications and management options for the management of the cervical lymphatics for each major subtype of NMSC. Further research remains critically necessary in order to develop complete treatment algorithms.

[Micrographic controlled surgery in everyday dermatosurgery]

Micrographic controlled surgery (MCS) has become established in dermatosurgery in recent years and includes various methods to enable the histologically proven complete resection of malignant cutaneous tumors, while at the same time sparing tumor-free tissue in the immediate vicinity as much as possible. MCS is of great importance in the surgical treatment of cutaneous malignancies in so-called problem locations and aggressive tumor subtypes. Indications for MCS include basal cell carcinoma, cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, Bowen's disease and Bowen's carcinoma, melanoma in chronic light-damaged skin with acral lentiginous melanoma, dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP), and Merkel cell carcinoma. However, other tumor entities are also treated using MCS, such as extramammary Paget's disease and various cutaneous sarcomas. All procedures subsumed under MCS have in common the marking of the surgical specimen for topographical orientation, which provides assignment of remaining tumor remnants. Various methods of MCS (3D histology, the horizontal method or Mohs surgery) are presented in this article. Furthermore, this article aims to raise awareness of the possibilities and limitations of micrographically controlled surgery.

Merkel cell carcinoma: a forty-year experience at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre

BACKGROUND

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but highly aggressive neuroendocrine skin malignancy, with Australia having the highest reported incidence in the world. There is currently a lack of consensus regarding optimal management of this disease.

METHODS

This was a retrospective audit conducted by reviewing existing medical records of MCC patients presenting to the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre (PMCC) between 1980 and 2018. The primary endpoint was locoregional recurrence. The secondary endpoints were distant recurrence, disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS).

RESULTS

A total of 533 patients were identified. Locoregional recurrence occurring at one, two and 5 years was 24, 31 and 32%, respectively. The estimated 5-year OS and DFS were 46% (95% Confidence Interval [CI] 41-51%) and 34% (95% CI 30-39%) respectively. Older age at diagnosis (hazard ratio [HR] per year = 1.07, 95% CI 1.06-1.07, p < 0.001), and larger primary tumour diameter (HR =1.16, 95% CI 1.03-1.31, p = 0.019) were associated with worse OS on multivariable analysis. Positive or negative histopathological margin status was not associated with OS or DFS differences in patients treated with post-operative radiotherapy.

CONCLUSIONS

In our study, about a third of patients developed locoregional recurrence, distal recurrence or both, and there appears to be no change over the last four decades. If treated with adjuvant radiotherapy, there is no difference in OS or DFS with positive surgical margins. Findings should influence future guidelines.

T-Cell Mediated Immunity in Merkel Cell Carcinoma

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and frequently lethal skin cancer with neuroendocrine characteristics. MCC can originate from either the presence of MCC polyomavirus (MCPyV) DNA or chronic ultraviolet (UV) exposure that can cause DNA mutations. MCC is predominant in sun-exposed regions of the body and can metastasize to regional lymph nodes, liver, lungs, bone, and brain. Older, light-skinned individuals with a history of significant sun exposure are at the highest risk. Previous studies have shown that tumors containing a high number of tumor-infiltrating T-cells have favorable survival, even in the absence of MCPyV DNA, suggesting that MCPyV infection enhances T-cell infiltration. However, other factors may also play a role in the host antitumor response. Herein, we review the impact of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), mainly the CD4⁺, CD8⁺, and regulatory T-cell (Tregs) responses on the course of MCC, including their role in initiating MCPyV-specific immune responses. Furthermore, potential research avenues related to T-cell biology in MCC, as well as relevant immunotherapies are discussed.

Merkel Cell Carcinoma of the External Ear: Population-Based Analysis and Survival Outcomes

(1) Background: Due to its highly aggressive behavior, the ability to identify and manage Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC) with a full understanding of its characteristics is essential. Because the external ear is an exposed area, resection can have dramatic consequences on patient’s self-image, which is why it is fundamental to detect MCC, typically found on UV-exposed regions such as the ears, at an early stage. (2) Methods: The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database was searched for all external ear MCC between 2000 and 2019. A descriptive analysis based on frequencies was made to describe the demography of pathophysiologic features linked to MCC. Overall survival (OS) was studied and compared between variables with a log rank test. A multivariable Cox regression analysis was then computed to identify independent prognostic factors. (3) Results: A total of 210 patients (160 men) were identified with a median age of 80 years. The median OS was 47 months. Factors associated with lower OS included an age of over 80 years, the male gender, a tumor size of >5 cm, and metastatic disease. Gross (<1 cm) and wide (>1 cm) surgery excision margins were the surgery types with the best OS. (4) Conclusions: MCC of the external ear is diagnosed mostly in old men. Among the 182 patients who received a surgical procedure, gross and wide excision without radiotherapy were associated with the best OS.

Clinicopathological features, MCPyV status and outcomes of Merkel cell carcinoma in solid-organ transplant recipients: a retrospective, multicentre cohort study

BACKGROUND

The proportion of Merkel cell carcinomas (MCCs) in solid-organ transplant recipients (SOTR) harbouring Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is unknown, as are factors affecting their outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

To describe clinicopathological features of MCC in SOTR, investigate the tumoral MCPyV-status and identify factors associated with tumour outcomes.

METHODS

Retrospective, international, cohort-study. MCPyV-status was investigated by immunohistochemistry and polymerase chain reaction.

RESULTS

A total of 30 SOTR and 44 consecutive immunocompetent patients with MCC were enrolled. SOTR were younger at diagnosis (69 vs. 78 years, P < 0.001). Thirty-three percent of SOTR MCCs were MCPyV-positive vs. 91% of immunocompetent MCCs (P = 0.001). Solid-organ transplantation was associated with an increased cumulative incidence of progression (SHR: 3.35 [1.57-7.14], P = 0.002), MCC-specific mortality (SHR: 2.55 [1.07-6.06], P = 0.034) and overall mortality (HR: 3.26 [1.54-6.9], P = 0.002). MCPyV-positivity and switching to an mTOR inhibitor (mTORi) after MCC diagnosis were associated with an increased incidence of progression (SHR: 4.3 [1.5-13], P = 0.008 and SHR: 3.6 [1.1-12], P = 0.032 respectively) in SOTR.

LIMITATIONS

Retrospective design and heterogeneity of SOTR cohort.

CONCLUSIONS

MCPyV appears to play a less prominent role in the aetiopathogenesis of MCC in SOTR. SOTR have a worse prognosis than their immunocompetent counterparts and switching to an mTORi after the diagnosis of MCC does not improve progression.

Partial Gastric Resection for Symptomatic Anemia following Diagnosis of Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC) of the Skin with Gastric Metastasis

Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC) is a rare dermatologic malignancy with significant morbidity and mortality associated with metastatic disease. In this case, we discuss and extremely rare presentation of MCC with metastasis to the stomach in a patient that presented with profound anemia. Unfortunately, mortality following diagnosis of MCC with gastric metastasis approaches 67% at 4 months based on available published reports. Due to its rarity and high rate of mortality, there is a lack of available research and literature to help guide treatment of this rare presentation of MCC. This case report presents a positive outcome associated with a partial gastrectomy for the treatment of symptomatic MCC with gastric metastasis and continued survival with persistently stable hemoglobin at 12 months.

Selective single-bacteria extraction based on capture and release of microemulsion droplets

Human host-associated microbial communities in body sites can reflect health status based on the population distribution and specific microbial properties in the heterogeneous community. Bacteria identification at the single-cell level provides a reliable biomarker and pathological information for clinical diagnosis. Nevertheless, biosamples obtained from some body sites cannot offer sufficient sample volume and number of target cells as required by most of the existing single-cell isolation methods such as flow cytometry. Herein we report a novel integrated microfluidic system, which consists of a microemulsion module for single-bacteria encapsulation and a sequential microdroplet capture and release module for selectively extracting only the single-bacteria encapsulated in microdroplets. We optimize the system for a success rate of the single-cell extraction to be > 38%. We further verify applicability of the system with prepared cell mixtures (Methylorubrum extorquens AM1 and Methylomicrobium album BG8) and biosamples collected from human skin, to quantify the population distribution of multiple key species in a heterogeneous microbial community. Results indicate perfect viability of the single-cell extracts and compatibility with downstream analyses such as PCR. Together, this research demonstrates that the reported single-bacteria extraction system can be applied in microbiome and pathology research and clinical diagnosis as a clinical or point-of-care device.

Predictors of Nodal Metastasis in Cutaneous Head and Neck Cancers

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The complex and varied drainage patterns in the head and neck present a challenge in the regional control of cutaneous neoplasms. Lymph node involvement significantly diminishes survival, often warranting more aggressive treatment. Here, we review the risk factors associated with lymphatic metastasis, in the context of the evolving role of sentinel lymph node biopsy.

RECENT FINDINGS

In cutaneous head and neck melanomas, tumor thickness, age, size, mitosis, ulceration, and specific histology have been associated with lymph node metastasis (LNM). In head and neck cutaneous squamous cell carcinomas, tumor thickness, size, perineural invasion, and immunosuppression are all risk factors for nodal metastasis. The risk factors for lymph node involvement in Merkel cell carcinoma are not yet fully defined, but emerging evidence indicates that tumor thickness and size may be  associated with regional metastasis. The specific factors that predict a greater risk of LNM for cutaneous head and neck cancers generally include depth of invasion, tumor size, mitotic rate, ulceration, immunosuppression, and other histopathological factors.

An Internally Validated Prognostic Risk-Score Model for Disease-Specific Survival in Clinical Stage I and II Merkel Cell Carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare cutaneous malignancy for which factors predictive of disease-specific survival (DSS) are poorly defined.

METHODS

Patients from six centers (2005-2020) with clinical stage I-II MCC who underwent sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy were included. Factors associated with DSS were identified using competing-risks regression analysis. Risk-score modeling was established using competing-risks regression on a training dataset and internally validated by point assignment to variables.

RESULTS

Of 604 patients, 474 (78.5%) and 128 (21.2%) patients had clinical stage I and II disease, respectively, and 189 (31.3%) had SLN metastases. The 5-year DSS rate was 81.8% with a median follow-up of 31 months. Prognostic factors associated with worse DSS included increasing age (hazard ratio [HR] 1.03, p = 0.046), male sex (HR 3.21, p = 0.021), immune compromise (HR 2.46, p = 0.013), presence of microsatellites (HR 2.65, p = 0.041), and regional nodal involvement (1 node: HR 2.48, p = 0.039; ≥2 nodes: HR 2.95, p = 0.026). An internally validated, risk-score model incorporating all of these factors was developed with good performance (AUC 0.738). Patients with ≤ 4.00 and > 4.00 points had 5-year DSS rates of 89.4% and 67.2%, respectively. Five-year DSS for pathologic stage I/II patients with > 4.00 points (n = 49) was 79.8% and for pathologic stage III patients with ≤ 4.00 points (n = 62) was 90.3%.

CONCLUSIONS

A risk-score model, including patient and tumor factors, based on DSS improves prognostic assessment of patients with clinically localized MCC. This may inform surveillance strategies and patient selection for adjuvant therapy trials.

Diagnosis and treatment of Merkel cell carcinoma: European consensus-based interdisciplinary guideline - Update 2022

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare skin cancer, accounting for less than 1% of all cutaneous malignancies. It is found predominantly in white populations and risk factors include advanced age, ultraviolet exposure, male sex, immunosuppression, such as AIDS/HIV infection, haematological malignancies or solid organ transplantation, and Merkel cell polyomavirus infection. MCC is an aggressive tumour with 26% of cases presenting lymph node involvement at diagnosis and 8% with distant metastases. Five-year overall survival rates range between 48% and 63%. Two subsets of MCC have been characterised with distinct molecular pathogenetic pathways: ultraviolet-induced MCC versus virus-positive MCC, which carries a better prognosis. In both subtypes, there are alterations in the retinoblastoma protein and p53 gene structure and function. MCC typically manifests as a red nodule or plaque with fast growth, most commonly on sun exposed areas. Histopathology (small-cell neuroendocrine appearance) and immunohistochemistry (CK20 positivity and TTF-1 negativity) confirm the diagnosis. The current staging systems are the American Joint Committee on Cancer/Union for international Cancer control 8th edition. Baseline whole body imaging is encouraged to rule out regional and distant metastasis. For localised MCC, first-line treatment is surgical excision with postoperative margin assessment followed by adjuvant radiation therapy (RT). Sentinel lymph node biopsy is recommended in all patients with MCC without clinically detectable lymph nodes or distant metastasis. Adjuvant RT alone, eventually combined with complete lymph nodes dissection is proposed in case of micrometastatic nodal involvement. In case of macroscopic nodal involvement, the standard of care is complete lymph nodes dissection potentially followed by post-operative RT. Immunotherapy with anti-PD-(L)1 antibodies should be offered as first-line systemic treatment in advanced MCC. Chemotherapy can be used when patients fail to respond or are intolerant for anti-PD-(L)1 immunotherapy or clinical trials.

Clinical-Pathological Evaluation and Prognostic Analysis of 228 Merkel Cell Carcinomas Focusing on Tumor-Infiltrating Lymphocytes, MCPYV Infection and ALK Expression

Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare and aggressive primary neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin, whose pathogenesis can be traced back to UV radiation damage or Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) infection. Despite some improvements on the characterization of the disease partly due to its increased incidence, crucial pathogenetic and prognostic factors still need to be refined. A consecutive series of 228 MCC from three hospitals in Turin was collected with the aim of both analyzing the apparent increase in MCC incidence in our area and investigating the distribution and prognostic role of clinical-pathological parameters, with a focus on MCPyV status, ALK tumor expression and tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs). Review of morphology and conventional immunohistochemical staining was possible in 191 cases. In 50 cases, the expression of the novel neuroendocrine marker INSM1 was additionally assessed. Fourteen cases of MCC of unknown primary skin lesion were identified and separately analyzed. While confirming an exponential trend in MCC incidence in the last decades and providing a description of histological and cytological features of a large series of MCC, the present study concludes that 1) INSM1 is a highly sensitive marker in both skin and lymph node primary MCC; 2) positive MCPyV status, brisk TILs and lower tumor size and thickness are independent positive prognostic parameters, and the combination of the former two may provide a novel tool for prognostic stratification; 3) ALK is expressed 87% of MCC and associated with positive viral status, and could represent a prognostic biomarker, if validated in larger series.

Survival outcomes and epidemiology of Merkel cell carcinoma of the lower limb and hip: A Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results analysis 2000-2018

Background

Merkel cell carcinoma of lower limb and hip skin is a rare skin tumor that has a high recurrence rate.

Objective

To assess epidemiology and survival outcomes of the lower limb and hip Merkel cell carcinoma, which are less addressed in the literature.

Methods

The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database was searched for all cases of skin Merkel cell carcinoma between 2000 and 2018. Demographic and clinicopathologic features were compared between lower limb and other skin localizations using the t test or χ² test. The overall survival (OS) of lower limb Merkel cell carcinoma was calculated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Subgroups were compared using the log rank test. Multivariate cox regression was used to identify independent prognostic factors.

Results

In total, 976 patients were identified. The mean age was 72.7 years. The median OS was 68 months, better than that of other localizations. Older age, regional lymph node, and distant metastasis were associated with low OS. Surgery with >1-cm margins, when associated with radiotherapy, had the best OS. Age, tumor size, lymph node status, presence of metastasis, and treatment sequence were identified as independent prognostic factors.

Conclusion

Lower limb and hip Merkel cell carcinomas have better OS than tumors in other skin localizations. In this dataset, the best OS was ensured using surgery with >1-cm margins and adjuvant radiotherapy.

An update on local and systemic therapies for non-melanoma skin cancer

INTRODUCTION

Nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSC) as a group exceed the incidence of all other malignancies combined. NMSC includes basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and Merkel cell carcinoma. As the incidence continues to rise, it is important to appreciate the available treatment options.

AREAS COVERED

This article discusses the treatment of NMSC though surgical, topical, regional, and systemic modalities.

EXPERT OPINION

As there are many treatment options available for these diseases, selection of the appropriate method can be difficult. With time, we expect treatment decisions to become even more complex and personalized. The role of systemic immunotherapies and neoadjuvant therapies in the treatment of NMSC is still not well defined. Local treatment with intralesional injections and isolated limb infusion may prove to be promising alternative therapies.

Merkel Cell Carcinoma, the Impact of Clinical Excision Margins and Mohs Micrographic Surgery on Recurrence and Survival: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

When treating Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), the relation between wide local excision (WLE) margin and recurrence or survival is unclear. Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) is an alternative surgical option for MCC, but it is unknown whether the local recurrence rate differs between MMS and WLE.

OBJECTIVE

To systematically assess the available literature to determine the recurrence and survival rates when treating MCC with MMS and different clinical excision margins.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL databases were searched. Two independent reviewers selected studies that defined clear excision margins and either recurrence or survival. When possible, individual cases were extracted from case series and included in the analyses. Other studies were reviewed narratively.

RESULTS

Overall, 1108 studies were identified; of which, 19 case series (168 cases) and 12 cohort studies were eligible. None of the cohort studies showed significant differences in recurrence or survival for either excision margins or MMS. Equally, logistic and Cox regression analyses of the case series revealed no significant differences in recurrence or survival between different excision margins and MMS.

CONCLUSION

Synthesis of the available data does not indicate differences in recurrence and/or survival rates for MCC between different clinical excision margins and MMS.

Treatment of Locally Advanced Merkel Cell Carcinoma-A Multi-Center Study

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare, aggressive skin cancer with a high risk of recurrence and poor prognosis. The treatment of locally advanced disease involves surgery and radiotherapy. To analyze real-life treatment patterns and clinical outcomes, we conducted a retrospective analysis of data from 161 MCC patients treated with curative intent in four oncological centers in Poland. The median age at diagnosis was 72 years (30-94); 49.7% were male. Lymph node (LN) involvement at diagnosis was found in 26.9% of patients. Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) was performed in 36.5% of patients (positive in 10.5%), and 51.9% of patients received perioperative treatment. The relapse rate was 38.3%. With the median follow-up of 2.3 years, the median disease-free survival (DFS) was not reached, and the 1-year rate was 65%. The negative independent risk factors for DFS were male gender, metastases in LN at diagnosis, no SLNB in patients without clinical nodal metastases, and no perioperative radiotherapy. The estimated median overall survival (OS) was 6.9 years (95% CI 4.64-9.15). The negative independent risk factors for OS were male gender, age above 70, metastases in LN at diagnosis, and no SLNB in patients without clinical nodal metastases. Our results confirm that the MCC treatment should be conducted in an experienced multidisciplinary team; however, the outcomes are still unsatisfactory.

Merkel cell carcinoma in the setting of hematologic disease is associated with unique features and potential pitfalls

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but aggressive neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin, often associated with polyomavirus and ultra-violet light exposure. Immunosuppression is associated with increased risk of development of MCC, including that associated with hematolymphoid disorders such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (CLL/SLL). We sought to determine whether MCC arising in patients with hematologic disorders showed unique features. Searching archived material at three institutions, we identified 13 patients with MCC and at least one hematologic malignancy and 41 patients with MCC with no reported hematologic malignancy. CLL/SLL was the most common hematologic disorder in this setting (9/13 cases). Clinical history, variation in morphologic appearance, unusual site distribution and concern for progression of underlying hematologic disease all contributed to potential diagnostic challenges. Overlapping marker expression between MCC and hematologic neoplasms created potential diagnostic pitfalls (e.g. CD138, Pax5, TdT, Bcl2, CD56, and CD117). In addition, we newly identify expression of CD5 and LEF-1 in a subset of MCC, including in patients with CLL/SLL. MCC in patients with hematologic malignancy were more common in men (92% versus 59%, p < 0.05) and showed an unusual site predilection to non-sun exposed sites (3/13 on the buttocks) with none presenting on the face or scalp. By contrast, face or scalp lesions were common in MCC without an associated hematologic malignancy (17/41, p < 0.05). Our findings reaffirm the need for skin surveillance in the setting of immune deficiency and for vigilance to identify unusual presentations of MCC in patients with or without hematologic disorders.

Cancer management during the COVID-19 pandemic: Choosing between the devil and the deep blue sea

COVID-19 was declared a "Public Health Emergency of International Concern" in March 2020. Since then, drastic measures were implemented to reduce the virus spread. These measures prevented cancer patients from receiving prompt medical care. A delay in testing and treating cancer patients is thought to protect them from serious COVID-19 complications but exposes them at the same time to the risk of disease progression and cancer related mortality. Healthcare providers are therefore facing the dilemma of choosing between two unpleasant scenarios. To shed light upon the matter, we present in this review article, based on an extensive search of the literature, an overview of the delay in the management of cancer patients, possible contributors to this delay and its benefits and risks on cancer patients' health.

Merkel Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck: Epidemiology, Pathogenesis, Current State of Treatment and Future Directions

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare, cutaneous neuroendocrine malignancy with increasing incidence. The skin of the head and neck is a common subsite for MCC with distinctions in management from other anatomic areas. Given the rapid pace of developments regarding MCC pathogenesis (Merkel cell polyoma virus (MCPyV)-positive or virus-negative, cell of origin), diagnosis, staging and treatment, and up to date recommendations are critical for optimizing outcomes. This review aims to summarize currently available literature for MCC of the head and neck. The authors reviewed current literature, including international guidelines regarding MCC pathogenesis, epidemiology, diagnosis, staging, and treatment. Subsequently recommendations were derived including the importance of baseline imaging, MCPyV serology testing, primary site surgery, nodal evaluation, radiotherapy, and the increasing role of immune modulating agents in MCC. MCPyV serology testing is increasingly important with potential distinctions in treatment response and surveillance between virus-positive and virus-negative MCC. Surgical management continues to balance optimizing local control with minimal morbidity. Similarly, radiotherapy continues to have importance in the adjuvant, definitive, and palliative setting for MCC of the head and neck. Immunotherapy has changed the paradigm for advanced MCC, with increasing work focusing on optimizing outcomes for non-responders and high-risk patients, including those with immunosuppression.

Recurrence and mortality rates with different treatment approaches of Merkel cell carcinoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Comprehensive treatment recommendations for Merkel cell carcinoma are complex. We aimed to systematically review the published data on recurrence and mortality rates associated with various treatment approaches for Merkel cell carcinoma.

METHODS

Search of MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus from inception to August 2015. Studies were included that reported comparative survival and recurrence data for two or more treatment modalities. Two reviewers independently reviewed and abstracted recurrence and mortality rates. Event rates for individual treatment arms in each study were pooled and meta-analyzed across studies using a random-effects model.

RESULTS

Fifty-two retrospective studies met inclusion criteria, revealing a total of 1,804 patients with primary Merkel cell carcinoma with data available for analyses. The recurrence rate was higher for surgery alone (55.0%) versus a combination of surgery and radiotherapy (39.0%) (odds ratio, 2.089; 95% CI, 1.374-3.177; P < 0.001). Combination therapy including surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy had a higher mortality rate (44.6%) than did combined surgery and radiotherapy (23.2%) (odds ratio, 2.688; 95% CI, 1.196-6.037; P = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

The treatment of Merkel cell carcinoma with surgery plus adjuvant radiotherapy may produce lower recurrence rates.

Outcome of early stage Merkel carcinoma treated by exclusive radiation: a study of 53 patients

Purpose

Early stage Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive primary skin cancer. The standard of care for MCC is broad excision and adjuvant external beam radiation therapy (EBRT). However, for some patients, anesthesia is contraindicated, while others run the risk of serious aesthetic sequelae. In such cases, exclusive radiotherapy is an interesting alternative to surgery. Though limited data is available, this study evaluates exclusive radiotherapy for MCC, using data from the largest retrospective study to date.

Methods

All patients who were followed in our center between 1989 and 2019 for histologically proven early stage MCC were included in the study. They were treated either by surgery with a 2-cm clear margin followed by adjuvant radiotherapy (RT) or by exclusive RT. Survival rates with adjuvant and exclusive EBRT were analyzed using Cox model and Fine and Gray model depending on the type of survival. p value < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

Eighty-four patients treated for MCC were included. Fifty-three of them (63.1%) were treated by exclusive RT, and 31 (36.9%) had surgical excision followed by adjuvant RT. Local relapse rate was 13.7% (95% CI 8.0–43.7) in the RT monotherapy group (group A) and 25.8% (95% CI 10.3–56.2) in the surgery + RT group (group B) (p = 0.42). No statistical difference was found for nodal relapse (p = 0.81), metastatic relapse (p = 0.10), disease free survival (p = 0.83) or overall survival (p = 0.98).

Conclusion

Our study suggests that exclusive radiotherapy for early Merkel cell carcinoma leads to a similar oncological outcome as combined treatment, with fewer aesthetic sequelae. The approach is interesting for elderly patients with comorbidities or patients for whom surgery would cause significant functional or aesthetic sequelae.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13014-021-01815-4.

Primary Merkel Cell Carcinoma: The Clinical Experience of Taipei Veterans General Hospital Revisited

BACKGROUND

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is rare among Asians. To evaluate the presence and characteristics of MCC in Taiwan, we described the characteristics, treatment, and prognostic findings of MCC in our institution.

METHODS

We revisited and carried out a retrospective chart review of 16 consecutive patients with MCC treated from 1995 to 2018. Patient demographic data, tumor size, location, previous treatment, and follow-up data about presence of locoregional recurrence and metastasis were evaluated.

RESULTS

There were 14 male and 2 female patients (mean age = 75.1 years; range = 26-91 years). Clinical follow-up revealed local recurrences in 5 patients 1 to 4 months after surgical excision. Lymph node metastasis was observed in 3 patients. We reviewed previously published articles and analyzed the clinical findings, pathologic examinations, and treatments.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical wide excision of the primary tumor remains the mainstay of treatment for patients with local/regional MCC. Additional management strategies, such as lymphadenectomy, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy, depend on the presence or absence of clinically detectable lymph node disease. The prognosis for MCC is variable. Our findings highlight the importance of maintaining a high clinical suspicion for this malignancy in the appropriate clinical context to avoid delays in diagnosis and management.

Predictors of False Negative Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy in Clinically Localized Merkel Cell Carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) is routinely recommended for clinically localized Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC); however, predictors of false negative (FN) SLNB are undefined.

METHODS

Patients from six centers undergoing wide excision and SLNB for stage I/II MCC (2005-2020) were identified and were classified as having either a true positive (TP), true negative (TN) or FN SLNB. Predictors of FN SLNB were identified and survival outcomes were estimated.

RESULTS

Of 525 patients, 28 (5.4%), 329 (62.7%), and 168 (32%) were classified as FN, TN, and TP, respectively, giving an FN rate of 14.3% and negative predictive value of 92.2% for SLNB. Median follow-up for SLNB-negative patients was 27 months, and median time to nodal recurrence for FN patients was 7 months. Male sex (hazard ratio [HR] 3.15, p = 0.034) and lymphovascular invasion (LVI) (HR 2.22, p = 0.048) significantly correlated with FN, and increasing age trended toward significance (HR 1.04, p = 0.067). The 3-year regional nodal recurrence-free survival for males >75 years with LVI was 78.5% versus 97.4% for females ≤75 years without LVI (p = 0.009). Five-year disease-specific survival (90.9% TN vs. 51.3% FN, p < 0.001) and overall survival (69.9% TN vs. 48.1% FN, p = 0.035) were significantly worse for FN patients.

CONCLUSION

Failure to detect regional nodal microscopic disease by SLNB is associated with worse survival in clinically localized MCC. Males, patients >75 years, and those with LVI may be at increased risk for FN SLNB. Consideration of increased nodal surveillance following negative SLNB in these high-risk patients may aid in early identification of regional nodal recurrences.

Immune Status in Merkel Cell Carcinoma: Relationships With Clinical Factors and Independent Prognostic Value

BACKGROUND

Immunosuppression (IS) currently is not considered in staging for Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). An analysis of the National Cancer Database (NCDB) was performed to investigate immune status as an independent predictor of overall survival (OS) for patients with MCC and to describe the relationship between immune status and other prognostic factors.

METHODS

The NCDB was queried for patients with a diagnosis of MCC from 2010 to 2016 who had known immune status. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to define factors associated with OS. Secondary models were constructed to assess the association between IS etiology and OS. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to characterize relationships between immune status and other factors.

RESULTS

The 3-year OS was lower for the patients with IS (44.6%) than for the immunocompetent (IC) patients (68.7%; p < 0.0001). Immunosuppression was associated with increased adjusted mortality hazard (hazard ratio [HR], 2.36, 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.03-2.75). The etiology of IS was associated with OS (p = 0.0015), and patients with solid-organ transplantation had the lowest 3-year OS (32.7%). Immunosuppression was associated with increased odds of greater nodal burden (odds ratio [OR], 1.70; 95% CI, 1.37-2.11) and lymphovascular invasion (OR, 1.58; 95% CI, 1.23-2.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Immune status was independently prognostic for the OS of patients with localized MCC. The etiology of IS may be associated with differential survival outcomes. Multiple adverse prognostic factors were associated with increased likelihood of IS. Immune status, and potentially the etiology of IS, may be useful prognostic factors to consider for future MCC staging systems.

Sentinel Node Biopsy for Nonmelanoma Skin Cancer of the Head and Neck

Sentinel lymph node biopsy has the potential to impact regional control and survival for high-risk cutaneous malignancy. The outcome of sentinel lymph node biopsy is a potential guide for treatment and surveillance. The population of high-risk nonmelanoma patients that will benefit from sentinel lymph node biopsy remains to be determined. Any cutaneous malignancy with a greater than 10% risk of occult metastasis should be considered for sentinel lymph node biopsy or active surveillance. Localized cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma lesions with multiple high-risk features and nearly all patients with localized Merkel cell carcinoma should be considered for sentinel lymph node biopsy.

Real-world clinical outcomes with first-line avelumab in locally advanced/metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma in the USA: SPEAR-Merkel

Aim: To assess clinical outcomes in patients with locally advanced (la) or metastatic (m) Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) initiating first-line (1L) avelumab in a USA community oncology setting. Materials & methods: Adults with laMCC or mMCC initiating 1L avelumab were identified from The US Oncology Network electronic health record database and chart review. Results: Median overall survival and progression-free survival were not reached in laMCC (n = 9) vs 20.2 and 10.0 months in mMCC (n = 19); response rates were similar (66.7% vs 63.2%). Conclusion: This is the first study to show clinical benefit in patients with laMCC receiving 1L avelumab in a US real-world setting. Response rates in patients with mMCC were consistent with pivotal trials.

Cutaneous Head and Neck Cancers in the High-Risk Immunosuppressed Population

The immunosuppressed (IS) population encompasses a diverse cohort of patients to include iatrogenically immunocompromised organ transplant recipients as well as patients with chronic lymphoid malignancies, human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, and autoimmune disorders. Cutaneous cancers in this high-risk patient group are clinically distinct from the general immunocompetent population, showing aggressive behavior with associated poor outcomes. This article reviews the pathogenesis, epidemiology, incidence, prognosis, and special considerations required in managing cutaneous cancers in the IS patient population.

Improved survival in women versus men with merkel cell carcinoma

BACKGROUND

Studies have observed that women have better outcomes than men in melanoma, but less is known about the influence of sex differences on outcomes for other aggressive cutaneous malignancies.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether women and men have disparate outcomes in Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC).

METHODS

Patients with nonmetastatic MCC undergoing surgery and lymph node evaluation were identified from the National Cancer Database (NCDB) and the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazards regression models were used for overall survival, and competing-risks analysis and Fine-Gray models were used for cause-specific and other-cause mortality.

RESULTS

The NCDB cohort (n = 4178) included 1516 (36%) women. Women had a consistent survival advantage compared with men in propensity score-matched analysis (66.0% vs 56.8% at 5 years, P < .001) and multivariable Cox regression (hazard ratio, 0.68; 95% confidence interval, 0.61-0.75; P < .001). Similarly, women had a survival advantage in the SEER validation cohort (n = 1202) with 457 (38.0%) women, which was entirely due to differences in MCC-specific mortality (5-year cumulative incidence: 16.4% vs 26.7%, P = .002), with no difference in other-cause mortality (16.8% vs 17.8%, P = .43) observed in propensity score-matched patients.

LIMITATIONS

Potential selection bias from a retrospective data set.

CONCLUSION

In MCC, women have improved survival compared with men, driven by MCC-related mortality.

The changing paradigm of managing Merkel cell carcinoma in Australia: An expert commentary

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a highly aggressive neuroendocrine tumor of the skin with an estimated disease-associated mortality of 15-33%. Australia has a higher incidence of MCC compared to the rest of the world, thought to be due to a higher ultraviolet index. The Australian MCC population is distinct from the MCC population of the Northern hemisphere, characterized by a predominantly viral negative etiology with high tumor mutational burden. The optimal management of MCC and the choice of treatment modality vary significantly across the world and even between institutions within Australia. Historically, the treatment for MCC has been resection followed by radiotherapy (RT), though definitive RT is an alternative treatment used commonly in Australia. The arrival of immune checkpoint inhibitors and the mounting evidence that MCC is a highly immunogenic disease is transforming the treatment landscape for MCC. Australia is playing a key role in the further development of treatment options for MCC with two upcoming Australian/New Zealand investigator-initiated clinical trials that will explore the interplay of RT and immunotherapy in the treatment of early and late stage MCC.

T-Cell Repertoire in Combination with T-Cell Density Predicts Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Merkel Cell Carcinoma

The integrity of the immune system represents a pivotal risk factor and prognostic biomarker for Merkel cell carcinoma. A higher density of tumor-associated T cells correlates with improved Merkel cell carcinoma-specific survival, but the prognostic importance of the T-cell infiltrate reactivity is unknown. We evaluated the T-cell receptor repertoire associated with 72 primary Merkel cell carcinomas and correlated metrics of the T-cell receptor repertoire with clinicopathologic characteristics and patient outcomes. We showed that a high Simpson's Dominance index (SDom) was significantly associated with fewer metastases (P = 0.01), lower stage at presentation (P = 0.02), lower final stage at last follow-up (P = 0.05), and longer time to first lymph node metastasis (P = 0.04). These correlations were mostly preserved in the Merkel cell polyomavirus-negative subgroup. Combining SDom with CD3⁺ or CD8⁺ T-cell density revealed three distinct prognostic groups with respect to disease-specific survival. Patients with both high SDom and high CD3⁺ or CD8⁺ T-cell density had markedly improved disease-specific survival compared with patients with low SDom and low CD3⁺ or CD8⁺ T-cell density (P = 0.002 and P = 0.03, respectively). Patients with either high SDom or high CD3⁺ or CD8⁺ had intermediate disease-specific survival. Our findings demonstrate that the quality of the tumor-associated T-cell infiltrate informs patient prognosis in primary Merkel cell carcinoma beyond the T-cell density.

Avelumab for advanced Merkel cell carcinoma in the Netherlands: a real-world cohort

BACKGROUND

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is associated with high recurrence rates and poor survival when metastatic disease is present. The immune checkpoint inhibitor avelumab has shown high response rates (RRs) and durable responses in patients with advanced MCC (aMCC) in clinical trials. To date, only results from clinical trials, patients treated in an expanded access program and very small numbers of patients have been reported. In this study, detailed real-world efficacy and toxicity data of avelumab in patients with aMCC are reported.

METHODS

Patients with aMCC treated in four dedicated referral centers in the Netherlands were analyzed from February 2017 until December 2019. Patients were included if they had received at least one administration of avelumab, regardless of previous lines of therapy. Patient data were collected retrospectively from patient records. Primary endpoints were response rate (RR) and duration of response (DOR). Secondary endpoints were progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), and toxicity.

RESULTS

Fifty-four patients received avelumab. Eight (15%) patients had locally advanced disease (laMCC). In 40 (74%) patients, avelumab was first-line treatment, these included all patients with laMCC. The median follow-up was 8.9 (range 0.5-35.9) months. RR was 57% (n=31) with 24% (n=13) of patients achieving a complete response. The median DOR was 8.4 (range 1.3-22.1) months and 23 (43%) patients had an ongoing response at the end of the study. The median PFS was 8.6 (95% CI 1.6-15.5) months, and the median OS was 25.8 (95% CI 9.1-42.4) months. Six (11%) patients experienced grade 3 toxicity. No grade 4-5 toxicity was seen.

CONCLUSIONS

In this real-world cohort, clinical efficacy and toxicity outcomes in clinical practice were in line with results from clinical trials and showed relatively high RRs and durable responses in patients with aMCC.

Oncologic outcomes of patients with Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC): A multi-institutional cohort study

BACKGROUND

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare cutaneous neuroendocrine tumor that primarily affects elderly patients. Despite aggressive treatment, overall survival (OS) remains low.

METHODS

This study is a multi-institutional, retrospective review of 102 patients with MCC. We evaluated OS, disease-specific survival (DSS), and risk factors for recurrence.

RESULTS

Median age of patients was 71.46% of patients recurred. Patients with stage I disease had median 5-year OS of 59.3%, compared to 68.1% DSS. For stage III, median 5-year OS was 46.0% vs 58.2% DSS. Disease stage and advanced age were risk factors for recurrence and decreased OS. Immunocompromised status and disease stage were the strongest predictors of DSS.

CONCLUSIONS

DSS is significantly better than OS for patients with MCC. Many elderly patients with newly diagnosed MCC have low remaining life expectancy, regardless of their MCC diagnosis. Patient age and overall health status should be considered to personalize care plans for patients with MCC.

Management of primary skin cancer during a pandemic: Multidisciplinary recommendations

During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, providers and patients must engage in shared decision making regarding the pros and cons of early versus delayed interventions for localized skin cancer. Patients at highest risk of COVID‐19 complications are older; are immunosuppressed; and have diabetes, cancer, or cardiopulmonary disease, with multiple comorbidities associated with worse outcomes. Physicians must weigh the patient's risk of COVID‐19 complications in the event of exposure against the risk of worse oncologic outcomes from delaying cancer therapy. Herein, the authors have summarized current data regarding the risk of COVID‐19 complications and mortality based on age and comorbidities and have reviewed the literature assessing how treatment delays affect oncologic outcomes. They also have provided multidisciplinary recommendations regarding the timing of local therapy for early‐stage skin cancers during this pandemic with input from experts at 11 different institutions. For patients with Merkel cell carcinoma, the authors recommend prioritizing treatment, but a short delay can be considered for patients with favorable T1 disease who are at higher risk of COVID‐19 complications. For patients with melanoma, the authors recommend delaying the treatment of patients with T0 to T1 disease for 3 months if there is no macroscopic residual disease at the time of biopsy. Treatment of tumors ≥T2 can be delayed for 3 months if the biopsy margins are negative. For patients with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma, those with Brigham and Women's Hospital T1 to T2a disease can have their treatment delayed for 2 to 3 months unless there is rapid growth, symptomatic lesions, or the patient is immunocompromised. The treatment of tumors ≥T2b should be prioritized, but a 1‐month to 2‐month delay is unlikely to worsen disease‐specific mortality. For patients with squamous cell carcinoma in situ and basal cell carcinoma, treatment can be deferred for 3 months unless the individual is highly symptomatic.

During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, providers must help patients to make informed decisions regarding skin cancer management and assess the risk of potential COVID‐19–associated morbidity and/or mortality versus primary skin cancer morbidity and/or mortality. In this article, the authors summarize current data regarding the risk of COVID‐19 complications and mortality based on age and comorbidities, and review the literature assessing how treatment delays affect oncologic outcomes. They provide multidisciplinary recommendations regarding the timing of local therapy for patients with early‐stage skin cancers.

Patterns of Metastasis in Merkel Cell Carcinoma

Background

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a cutaneous neuroendocrine malignancy with a propensity for regional and distant spread. Because of the relative infrequency of this disease, the patterns of metastasis in MCC are understudied.

Methods

Patients with American Joint Committee on Cancer (8th edition) stage I–IV MCC treated at our institution were identified (1/1/2008–2/28/2018). The first site of metastasis was classified as regional [regional lymph node (LN) basin, in-transit] or distant. Distant metastasis-free (DMFS) and MCC-specific (MSS) survival were estimated.

Results

Of 133 patients, 64 (48%) had stage I, 13 (10%) stage II, 48 (36%) stage III, and 8 (6%) stage IV disease at presentation. The median follow-up time in patients who remained alive was 36 (interquartile range 20–66) months. Regional or distant metastases developed in 78 (59%) patients. The first site was regional in 87%, including 73% with isolated LN involvement, and distant in 13%. Thirty-seven (28%) patients eventually developed distant disease, which most commonly involved the abdominal viscera (51%) and distant LNs (46%) first. The lung (0%) and brain (3%) were rarely the first distant sites. Stage III MCC at presentation was significantly associated with worse DMFS (hazard ratio 4.87, P = 0.001) and stage IV disease with worse MSS (hazard ratio 6.30, P = 0.002).

Conclusions

Regional LN metastasis is the most common first metastatic event in MCC, confirming the importance of nodal evaluation. Distant disease spread appears to have a predilection for certain sites. Understanding these patterns could help to guide surveillance strategies.

A case of Merkel cell carcinoma of the head and neck

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a relatively rare and aggressive cutaneous neuroendocrine malignancy. It is characterized by high rates of recurrence and metastasis, both to regional lymph nodes and to distant locations. Its characteristic clinical manifestation is a single, painless, hard, erythematous nodule on a sun-exposed area, particularly in older men. Surgical management of both the primary site and the sentinel lymph node is the standard of care. In this article, we describe the diagnosis and treatment of a case of MCC in the left cheek.

Management of regional metastatic disease in cutaneous malignancy of the head and neck. 3. Merkel cell carcinoma

This is the third of three articles that give an overview of the current evidence for management of the neck and parotid in patients with cutaneous cancers of the head and neck. In this paper we discuss Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) and review the latest evidence for management of the regional nodes.

Merkel cell carcinoma in Taiwan: A series of 24 cases and literature review

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but aggressive neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin. The available reports of MCC in Asia are limited; in this study, we report the largest series of MCC in Taiwan to date.The series is composed by 24 pathologically proven MCC cases, which were retrospectively reviewed in Chang Gung Memorial Hospital in Taiwan between 2000 and 2018.The tumor occurred predominantly in men (80%) and in the elderly (median 74.8 years). Twenty-one patients had locoregional MCC and 3 had metastatic MCC at the time of diagnosis. Patients with pathologically proven negative nodes by sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) showed better survival time than those without SLNB in 16 clinically node-negative MCC cases undergoing primary surgery. Salvage surgery for loco-regional recurrence lengthened the survival time and possibly cured recurrent MCC. Palliative chemotherapy with cisplatin and etoposide showed a response rate of 25%, progression-free survival of 3.6 months, and overall survival of 14.8 months in 4 metastatic/recurrent MCC. Avelumab treatment was effective in 1 patient, who achieved a durable disease control.This observational cohort of MCC patients in Taiwan suggests aggressive surgical intervention including wide excision and lymph node management, salvage operation is critical for early MCC patients, and palliative chemotherapy and immunotherapy showed their efficacy for advanced MCC patients.