1
|
Pedersen EA, Verhaegen ME, Joseph MK, Harms KL, Harms PW. Merkel cell carcinoma: updates in tumor biology, emerging therapies, and preclinical models. Front Oncol 2024; 14:1413793. [PMID: 39136002 PMCID: PMC11317257 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2024.1413793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma thought to arise via either viral (Merkel cell polyomavirus) or ultraviolet-associated pathways. Surgery and radiotherapy have historically been mainstays of management, and immunotherapy has improved outcomes for advanced disease. However, there remains a lack of effective therapy for those patients who fail to respond to these established approaches, underscoring a critical need to better understand MCC biology for more effective prognosis and treatment. Here, we review the fundamental aspects of MCC biology and the recent advances which have had profound impact on management. The first genetically-engineered mouse models for MCC tumorigenesis provide opportunities to understand the potential MCC cell of origin and may prove useful for preclinical investigation of novel therapeutics. The MCC cell of origin debate has also been advanced by recent observations of MCC arising in association with a clonally related hair follicle tumor or squamous cell carcinoma in situ. These studies also suggested a role for epigenetics in the origin of MCC, highlighting a potential utility for this therapeutic avenue in MCC. These and other therapeutic targets form the basis for a wealth of ongoing clinical trials to improve MCC management. Here, we review these recent advances in the context of the existing literature and implications for future investigations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mallory K. Joseph
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Kelly L. Harms
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| | - Paul W. Harms
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, United States
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Braun A, Cheng L, Reddy S, Gattuso P, Yan L. Metastatic Neuroendocrine Tumors to Parotid Gland: Where Do They Come From? Int J Surg Pathol 2023; 31:167-174. [PMID: 35466730 DOI: 10.1177/10668969221095267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background. Metastasis to parotid gland occurs mostly from skin cancers of the head and neck region. Metastatic neuroendocrine tumors to the parotid gland are rare and not well studied so far. In this study, we undertook a retrospective review of secondary neuroendocrine tumors of the parotid diagnosed in our institution. The most common entities, primary tumor locations, their clinical presentations and histopathological features were analyzed. Methods. Cases of secondary neuroendocrine tumors to parotid diagnosed from August 1995 to Jan 2021 were retrieved from our institution's pathology databases, and their clinicopathological features were reviewed. Results. About 29% (120 of 420 cases) of parotid neoplasms were malignant, including 70 cases of parotid primary malignant tumors and 50 cases of metastases to parotid glands. Among metastatic tumors to the parotid glands, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma of the head and neck region together accounted for about 78% of the cases. Only 11 of 50 metastatic tumors to the parotid were neuroendocrine carcinomas (22%). The most common primaries were poorly differentiated neuroendocrine carcinoma of lung (5 of 11 cases), including 4 cases of small cell carcinoma and one case of large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma. The second most common secondary tumor was Merkel cell carcinoma (4 of 11 cases, 36%) including one case of direct invasion from overlying skin. Medullary carcinoma of the thyroid comprised the rest of the metastases to the parotid (2 of 11 cases, 18%). Conclusion. Our results show that metastatic neuroendocrine carcinomas to the parotid gland account for about 22% of all metastatic tumors to the organ. Lung is the most common primary neuroendocrine carcinoma location. It is not uncommon for metastatic neuroendocrine carcinoma to present as the first sign of systemic clinical manifestation. Merkel cell carcinoma is the second most common entity that metastasizes to parotid, followed by medullary carcinoma of the thyroid.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ankica Braun
- Department of Pathology, 2468Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Lin Cheng
- Department of Pathology, 2468Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Swathi Reddy
- Department of General Surgery, 2468Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Paolo Gattuso
- Department of Pathology, 2468Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Lei Yan
- Department of Pathology, 2468Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Loria SJ, Siddiqui NN, Gary JM, Bhatnagar J, Bollweg BC, Ahmed B, Berenson CS. BK virus associated with small cell carcinoma of bladder in a patient with renal transplant. BMJ Case Rep 2022; 15:e244740. [PMID: 35351771 PMCID: PMC8966499 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2021-244740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
A man in his 70s with a complex medical history, including cadaveric renal transplant, presented with recurrent urinary tract infections. Investigation revealed recurrent urinary pathogens, including Enterobacter cloacae and persistent BK viruria. Cystoscopy revealed a pedunculated mass in the right posterior-lateral wall, inferior to the transplant urethral orifice, and biopsy of this mass showed invasive small cell carcinoma with a prominent adenocarcinoma component. The tumour was treated with complete transurethral resection followed by carboplatin, etoposide and radiation. Laboratory analysis of biopsied samples showed immunostaining and molecular evidence of BK virus DNA in the cancer cells. Follow-up cystoscopies have shown no recurrence of the cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samantha J Loria
- Department of Internal Medicine, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Nabiya N Siddiqui
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Joy M Gary
- Infectious Diseases Pathology Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Julu Bhatnagar
- Infectious Diseases Pathology Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Brigid C Bollweg
- Infectious Diseases Pathology Branch, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - Basem Ahmed
- Department of Pathology, VA Western New York Healthcare System, Buffalo, New York, USA
| | - Charles S Berenson
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York, USA
- Division of Infectious Diseases, VA Western New York Healthcare System, Buffalo, New York, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Talsma CE, Wang M, Andea AA, Fullen DR, Harms PW, Chan MP. Expression of p16 in Merkel cell carcinoma. J Cutan Pathol 2020; 48:455-457. [PMID: 32592172 DOI: 10.1111/cup.13790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2020] [Revised: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Min Wang
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Aleodor A Andea
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Douglas R Fullen
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Paul W Harms
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - May P Chan
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Young S, Oh J, Bukhari H, Ng T, Chau N, Tran E. Primary Parotid Merkel Type Small Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma with Oligometastasis to the Brain and Adrenal Gland: Case Report and Review of Literature. Head Neck Pathol 2020; 15:311-318. [PMID: 32350808 PMCID: PMC8010043 DOI: 10.1007/s12105-020-01164-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2020] [Accepted: 04/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Oligometastatic disease is a hypothesized intermediate stage of disease between localized and widespread metastatic cancer. Localized treatment of oligometastatic lesions may offer survival advantages in addition to systemic treatment. In this case report, we describe a patient who presented with small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma "Merkel type" (SNECM) of the parotid gland which had metastasized to the brain and adrenal gland. He was treated with chemotherapy followed by stereotactic radiotherapy and volumetric modulated arc therapy for oligometastasis. He maintains good functional status with low burden of disease at 20-months after diagnosis. SNECM is a rare and aggressive parotid cancer with immunohistochemical and morphologic similarities to Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). There are only 44 cases of parotid SNECM in the English literature. This is the first case to describe management of oligometastatic SNECM and we review literature on management of both SNECM and metastatic MCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sympascho Young
- University of British Columbia Faculty of Medicine, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Justin Oh
- Department of Radiation Oncology, BC Cancer, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Hussam Bukhari
- Department of Pathology, BC Cancer, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Tony Ng
- Department of Pathology, BC Cancer, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Nichole Chau
- Department of Medical Oncology, BC Cancer, Vancouver, BC Canada
| | - Eric Tran
- Department of Radiation Oncology, BC Cancer, Vancouver, BC Canada
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Csoboz B, Rasheed K, Sveinbjørnsson B, Moens U. Merkel cell polyomavirus and non-Merkel cell carcinomas: guilty or circumstantial evidence? APMIS 2020; 128:104-120. [PMID: 31990105 DOI: 10.1111/apm.13019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is the major causative factor of the rare but aggressive cancer, Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). Two characteristics of MCPyV-positive MCCs are integration of the viral genome and expression of a truncated version of one of its oncogenic proteins, namely large T antigen. The strong association of MCPyV with MCC development has incited researchers to further investigate a possible role of this virus in other cancers. However, many of the examples displaying the presence of the virus in the various non-MCC cancers are not able to clearly demonstrate a direct connection between cellular transformation and the presence of the virus. The prevalence of the virus is significantly lower in non-MCC cancers compared to MCCs, with a lower level of viral load and sparse viral protein expression. Moreover, the state of the viral genome, and whether a truncated large T antigen is expressed, has rarely been investigated. Nonetheless, considering the strong oncogenic potential of MCPyV proteins in MCC, the plausible contribution of MCPyV to transformation and cancer growth in non-MCC tumors cannot be ruled out. Furthermore, the absence of MCPyV in cancers does not exclude a hit-and-run mechanism, or the oncoproteins of MCPyV may potentiate the neoplastic process mediated by co-infecting oncoviruses such as high-risk human papillomaviruses and Epstein-Barr virus. The current review is focusing on the available data describing the presence of MCPyV in non-MCC tumors, with an aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the corresponding literature and to discuss the potential contribution of MCPyV to non-MCC cancer in light of this.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Balint Csoboz
- Molecular Inflammation Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, University of Tromsø - The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Kashif Rasheed
- Molecular Inflammation Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, University of Tromsø - The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Baldur Sveinbjørnsson
- Molecular Inflammation Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, University of Tromsø - The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Ugo Moens
- Molecular Inflammation Research Group, Department of Medical Biology, University of Tromsø - The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
UV Signature Mutations Reclassify Salivary High-grade Neuroendocrine Carcinomas as Occult Metastatic Cutaneous Merkel Cell Carcinomas. Am J Surg Pathol 2019; 43:682-687. [DOI: 10.1097/pas.0000000000001231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
|
8
|
Stanoszek LM, Chan MP, Palanisamy N, Carskadon S, Siddiqui J, Patel RM, Harms KL, Lowe L, Fullen DR, Harms PW. Neurofilament is superior to cytokeratin 20 in supporting cutaneous origin for neuroendocrine carcinoma. Histopathology 2018; 74:504-513. [PMID: 30239030 DOI: 10.1111/his.13758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2018] [Accepted: 09/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM Primary cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma, or Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), cannot be distinguished morphologically from small-cell neuroendocrine carcinomas (SmCC) from other sites. Immunohistochemistry is required to confirm cutaneous origin, and is also used for detection of sentinel lymph node (SLN) metastases of MCC. Cytokeratin 20 (CK20) expression is commonly used for these purposes, but is negative in some MCC cases, and has unclear specificity. We evaluated immunohistochemistry for neurofilament and CK20 in MCC compared with SmCC from other sites. METHODS AND RESULTS We evaluated neurofilament expression in 55 MCC specimens from 39 unique patients, including nine CK20-negative MCC tumours. Neurofilament expression was observed in 42 of 55 (76.4%) MCC cases, including seven of nine (77.8%) CK20-negative MCC cases. Neurofilament was expressed in nine of 12 (75%) Merkel cell polyomavirus-positive tumours and five of 10 (50%) virus-negative tumours. Compared to a standard immunohistochemical panel (cytokeratin cocktail and CK20), neurofilament was 87.5% sensitive for detecting SLN metastases. Neurofilament and CK20 expression was also assessed in 61 extracutaneous SmCC from 60 unique patients, with primary sites including lung (27), bladder (18), cervix (3), gastrointestinal tract (3), sinonasal tract (2) and other sites (7). The specificity of neurofilament and CK20 for MCC versus non-cutaneous SmCC was 96.7% and 59.0%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Neurofilament has superior specificity to CK20 in distinguishing MCC from non-cutaneous SmCC. Neurofilament is frequently expressed in CK20- and virus-negative MCC tumours. Limitations of neurofilament immunohistochemistry include lower sensitivity than CK20 and subtle staining in some tumours. However, our findings indicate that neurofilament is useful for excluding non-cutaneous SmCC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M Stanoszek
- Department of Pathology, Michigan Medicine/University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - May P Chan
- Department of Pathology, Michigan Medicine/University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department ofDermatology, Michigan Medicine/University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Nallasivam Palanisamy
- Department of Urology, Vattikuti Urology Institute, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Shannon Carskadon
- Department of Urology, Vattikuti Urology Institute, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Javed Siddiqui
- Department of Pathology, Michigan Medicine/University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Rajiv M Patel
- Department of Pathology, Michigan Medicine/University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department ofDermatology, Michigan Medicine/University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Kelly L Harms
- Department ofDermatology, Michigan Medicine/University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Lori Lowe
- Department of Pathology, Michigan Medicine/University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department ofDermatology, Michigan Medicine/University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Douglas R Fullen
- Department of Pathology, Michigan Medicine/University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department ofDermatology, Michigan Medicine/University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Paul W Harms
- Department of Pathology, Michigan Medicine/University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department ofDermatology, Michigan Medicine/University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Chernock RD, Duncavage EJ. Proceedings of the NASHNP Companion Meeting, March 18th, 2018, Vancouver, BC, Canada: Salivary Neuroendocrine Carcinoma-An Overview of a Rare Disease with an Emphasis on Determining Tumor Origin. Head Neck Pathol 2018; 12:13-21. [PMID: 29556963 PMCID: PMC5873497 DOI: 10.1007/s12105-018-0896-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Salivary neuroendocrine carcinomas are rare and the overwhelming majority is high-grade. The parotid gland is the most commonly involved site followed by the submandibular gland. Most arise de novo but rare examples occurring as a high-grade transformation of another type of salivary gland neoplasm exist. There is significant morphologic and immunophenotypic overlap with neuroendocrine carcinomas of other sites, especially the skin. Like cutaneous neuroendocrine (or Merkel cell) carcinomas, approximately three-fourths are cytokeratin 20 positive. Cytokeratin 20 positive salivary neuroendocrine carcinomas are often referred to as being of the 'Merkel cell type' since most other non-cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinomas are cytokeratin 20 negative. Salivary neuroendocrine carcinomas may be challenging to separate from Merkel cell carcinomas of the head and neck on pathologic grounds because the latter often metastasize to the parotid gland. Clinical history is often relied upon to separate primary salivary tumors from cutaneous metastases but may not be helpful in all cases. Here we review the clinical, pathologic and molecular features of salivary neuroendocrine carcinomas focusing on high-grade major salivary gland tumors. The difficulty in separating salivary tumors from metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma will be highlighted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca D. Chernock
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Ave., Campus Box 8118, St. Louis, MO USA ,Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO USA
| | - Eric J. Duncavage
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, 660 S. Euclid Ave., Campus Box 8118, St. Louis, MO USA
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Chen AA, Gheit T, Stellin M, Lupato V, Spinato G, Fuson R, Menegaldo A, Mckay-Chopin S, Dal Cin E, Tirelli G, Da Mosto MC, Tommasino M, Boscolo-Rizzo P. Oncogenic DNA viruses found in salivary gland tumors. Oral Oncol 2017; 75:106-110. [PMID: 29224806 DOI: 10.1016/j.oraloncology.2017.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2017] [Revised: 10/02/2017] [Accepted: 11/04/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous investigations studying the association of DNA viruses with salivary gland tumors (SGTs) have led to conflicting results. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of different DNA viruses by using a highly sensitive assay in a multi-center series of over 100 fresh frozen salivary gland samples. METHODS DNA was isolated from 84 SGTs (80 parotid tumors and 4 submandibular gland tumors) and 28 normal salivary tissue samples from 85 patients in Northeast Italy. Using a highly sensitive type-specific multiplex genotyping assay, we analyzed the samples for the presence of DNA from 62 different viruses including 47 papillomaviruses, 10 polyomaviruses, and 5 herpesviruses. RESULTS We observed a high prevalence of beta human papillomavirus DNA in malignant tumors. In contrast, polyomavirus DNA was present in benign, malignant, and non-tumor control samples. Most striking was the significant distribution of herpesvirus DNA in the SGT samples, in particular the high prevalence of Epstein-Barr type 1 and type 2 DNA in Warthin's tumor samples. CONCLUSION Our data provides evidence for the presence of DNA viruses in SGTs. Mechanistic studies are needed to further attribute tumor formation to these viruses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alyce A Chen
- Section of Infections, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - Tarik Gheit
- Section of Infections, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - Marco Stellin
- Department of Neurosciences, ENT Clinic and Regional Center for Head and Neck Cancer, University of Padova, Treviso, Italy
| | - Valentina Lupato
- Unit of Otolaryngology, Azienda Ospedaliera "S. Maria degli Angeli", Pordenone, Italy
| | | | - Roberto Fuson
- ENT Department, Ospedale dell'Angelo, Venezia-Mestre, Italy
| | - Anna Menegaldo
- Department of Neurosciences, ENT Clinic and Regional Center for Head and Neck Cancer, University of Padova, Treviso, Italy
| | | | - Elisa Dal Cin
- Head and Neck Department, ENT Clinic, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Integrata di Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Tirelli
- Head and Neck Department, ENT Clinic, Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Integrata di Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Da Mosto
- Department of Neurosciences, ENT Clinic and Regional Center for Head and Neck Cancer, University of Padova, Treviso, Italy
| | - Massimo Tommasino
- Section of Infections, International Agency for Research on Cancer, Lyon, France
| | - Paolo Boscolo-Rizzo
- Department of Neurosciences, ENT Clinic and Regional Center for Head and Neck Cancer, University of Padova, Treviso, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Harms KL, Lazo de la Vega L, Hovelson DH, Rahrig S, Cani AK, Liu CJ, Fullen DR, Wang M, Andea AA, Bichakjian CK, Johnson TM, Tomlins SA, Harms PW. Molecular Profiling of Multiple Primary Merkel Cell Carcinoma to Distinguish Genetically Distinct Tumors From Clonally Related Metastases. JAMA Dermatol 2017; 153:505-512. [PMID: 28403382 DOI: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2017.0507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Importance Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma. In rare cases, the development of an additional cutaneous MCC tumor is clinically consistent with a second primary MCC tumor rather than a cutaneous metastasis, which has important treatment and prognostic implications. Objective To evaluate genetic relatedness in 4 cases with the clinical diagnosis of multiple primary MCCs. Design, Setting, and Participants In this case series, 7 cases of clinically designated multiple primary MCC were identified; 4 cases met inclusion criteria for next-generation sequencing (NGS) analysis. Mutations, copy number alterations, and Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) sequence were analyzed and compared between clinically designated multiple primary tumors to characterize genetic relatedness and hence assess clonality. Patients with clinically designated multiple primary MCC were identified from the multidisciplinary MCC Program at the University of Michigan, a tertiary care center. Main Outcomes and Measures Four cases of clinically designated multiple primary MCC were characterized by tumor sequencing and targeted MCPyV sequencing to distinguish independent primary tumors from related metastases. Results Overall, 4 patients in their 70s or 80s were included and analyzed. Cases 1 and 4 were verified as genetically distinct primary tumors and did not harbor similar copy number alterations or demonstrate significant mutational overlap. Cases 2 and 3 were designated as clonally related based on overlapping copy number alterations. In clonally related tumors, chromosomal copy number changes were more reliable than mutations for demonstrating clonality. Regardless of clonality, we found that MCPyV status was concordant for all tumor pairs and MCPyV positive tumors harbored predominatly subclonal mutations. Conclusions and Relevance Our findings suggest that patients with MCC may develop a second genetically distinct primary tumor; in this case, the subsequent tumor is likely to develop through similar mechanisms of pathogenesis, either MCPyV-mediated or ultraviolet light-mediated. Next-generation sequencing analysis of chromosomal copy number changes and mutations is useful in distinguishing multiple primary MCCs from progression of MCC clinically resembling multiple primaries, allowing appropriate staging of the patient.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kelly L Harms
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor2Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor
| | - Lorena Lazo de la Vega
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor4Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor
| | - Daniel H Hovelson
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor4Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor
| | - Samantha Rahrig
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor4Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor
| | - Andi K Cani
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor4Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor
| | - Chia-Jen Liu
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor4Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor
| | - Douglas R Fullen
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor4Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor
| | - Min Wang
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor
| | - Aleodor A Andea
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor4Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor
| | - Christopher K Bichakjian
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor2Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor
| | - Timothy M Johnson
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor2Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor
| | - Scott A Tomlins
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor3Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor4Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor5Department of Urology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor
| | - Paul W Harms
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor3Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor4Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Harms PW, Collie AMB, Hovelson DH, Cani AK, Verhaegen ME, Patel RM, Fullen DR, Omata K, Dlugosz AA, Tomlins SA, Billings SD. Next generation sequencing of Cytokeratin 20-negative Merkel cell carcinoma reveals ultraviolet-signature mutations and recurrent TP53 and RB1 inactivation. Mod Pathol 2016; 29:240-8. [PMID: 26743471 PMCID: PMC4769666 DOI: 10.1038/modpathol.2015.154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2015] [Revised: 11/13/2015] [Accepted: 11/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare but highly aggressive cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma. Cytokeratin 20 (CK20) is expressed in ~95% of Merkel cell carcinomas and is useful for distinction from morphologically similar entities including metastatic small-cell lung carcinoma. Lack of CK20 expression may make diagnosis of Merkel cell carcinoma more challenging, and has unknown biological significance. Approximately 80% of CK20-positive Merkel cell carcinomas are associated with the oncogenic Merkel cell polyomavirus. Merkel cell carcinomas lacking Merkel cell polyomavirus display distinct genetic changes from Merkel cell polyomavirus-positive Merkel cell carcinoma, including RB1 inactivating mutations. Unlike CK20-positive Merkel cell carcinoma, the majority of CK20-negative Merkel cell carcinomas are Merkel cell polyomavirus-negative, suggesting CK20-negative Merkel cell carcinomas predominantly arise through virus-independent pathway(s) and may harbor additional genetic differences from conventional Merkel cell carcinoma. Hence, we analyzed 15 CK20-negative Merkel cell carcinoma tumors (10 Merkel cell polyomavirus-negative, four Merkel cell polyomavirus-positive, and one undetermined) using the Ion Ampliseq Comprehensive Cancer Panel, which assesses copy number alterations and mutations in 409 cancer-relevant genes. Twelve tumors displayed prioritized high-level chromosomal gains or losses (average 1.9 per tumor). Non-synonymous high-confidence somatic mutations were detected in 14 tumors (average 11.9 per tumor). Assessing all somatic coding mutations, an ultraviolet-signature mutational profile was present, and more prevalent in Merkel cell polyomavirus-negative tumors. Recurrent deleterious tumor suppressor mutations affected TP53 (9/15, 60%), RB1 (3/15, 20%), and BAP1 (2/15, 13%). Oncogenic activating mutations included PIK3CA (3/15, 20%), AKT1 (1/15, 7%) and EZH2 (1/15, 7%). In conclusion, CK20-negative Merkel cell carcinoma display overlapping genetic changes with CK20-positive Merkel cell carcinoma, including RB1 mutations restricted to Merkel cell polyomavirus-negative tumors. However, some CK20-negative Merkel cell carcinomas harbor mutations not previously described in Merkel cell carcinoma. Hence, CK20-negative Merkel cell carcinomas harbor diverse oncogenic drivers which may represent therapeutic targets in individual tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul W. Harms
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA,Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA,Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Angela M. B. Collie
- Department of Pathology, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Daniel H. Hovelson
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA,Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Andi K. Cani
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA,Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Monique E. Verhaegen
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Rajiv M. Patel
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA,Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Douglas R. Fullen
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA,Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Kei Omata
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA,Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Andrzej A. Dlugosz
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA,Department of Cell & Developmental Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI USA
| | - Scott A. Tomlins
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA,Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA,Department of Urology, University of Michigan Health System, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Steven D. Billings
- Department of Pathology, Cleveland Clinic, 9500 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Chantziantoniou N, Joudeh AA, Hamed RMA, Al-Abbadi MA. Significance, cytomorphology of decoy cells in polyomavirus-associated nephropathy: Review of clinical, histopathological, and virological correlates with commentary. J Am Soc Cytopathol 2016; 5:71-85. [PMID: 31042494 DOI: 10.1016/j.jasc.2015.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2015] [Revised: 10/28/2015] [Accepted: 11/03/2015] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Human polyomaviruses (PyV) are ubiquitous, remaining predominantly inactive hence asymptomatic in the healthy, immunocompetent population. BK and JC PyV potentially infect pan-urinary tract epithelial cells. With reactivation, PyV disrupt cell cycling mechanisms, facilitating viral replication leading to cell necrosis, exfoliation, and, infrequently, carcinogenesis. Exfoliated PyV-infected cells pose diagnostic pitfalls, hence they are termed "decoy cells" as they may mimic high-grade urothelial carcinoma cells. BK polyomavirus-associated-nephropathy (BKVAN) is an inflammatory disease causing interstitial fibrosis with tubular atrophy in renal transplant recipients, increasing risk of graft loss. BKVAN is confirmed by renal biopsy, and managed by immunosuppression modulation. As voided urine may provide pan-reno-urinary tract sampling, cytopathology may serve a critical diagnostic purpose coupled with decoy cell quantification and indirect BK PyV load gauging. Thus, identification of decoy cells and differentiation from high-grade urothelial carcinoma cells, and degenerated, benign urothelial cells, is clinically essential. PyV virology and pathobiology in the context of renal transplantation, immuno-suppression and BKVAN, and, decoy cell cytomorphology and cytopreparation with commentary are highlighted. Decoy cell overall characteristics: variable degeneration; cytomegaly; comet-like shapes; angular cytoplasmic extensions; eccentric, polar nuclear placements; moderate anisocytosis; typically single cells with high N:C ratios. Cytoplasmic features: moderate-abundance; granular, blue-gray monochromatism. Nuclear features: karyomegaly; haphazardly-scattered chromatin densities; smudged, homogeneous, basophilic ground glass masses displacing chromatin alongside inner periphery of regular, symmetrical nuclear envelopes. Background features: granular cellular debris; inflammatory cells; intact and lyzed erythrocytes. Decoy cells lack coarse chromatin as in high-grade urothelial carcinoma cells. Benign urothelial cells exhibit low N:C ratios with fine chromatin distribution and euchromasia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Amani A Joudeh
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, King Fahad Specialist Hospital, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Radi M A Hamed
- Department of Pediatrics, King Fahad Specialist Hospital, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mousa A Al-Abbadi
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, King Fahad Specialist Hospital, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Miner AG, Patel RM, Wilson D, Procop GW, Minca E, Fullen DR, Harms PW, Billings SD. Reply to Commentary on "Cytokeratin 20-negative Merkel cell carcinoma is infrequently associated with the Merkel cell polyomavirus". Mod Pathol 2016; 29:90-1. [PMID: 26715062 DOI: 10.1038/modpathol.2015.125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew G Miner
- Cleveland Clinic Department of Dermatology, Cleveland, OH, USA.,Cleveland Clinic Department of Pathology, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Rajiv M Patel
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Deborah Wilson
- Cleveland Clinic Department of Pathology, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Gary W Procop
- Cleveland Clinic Department of Pathology, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Eugen Minca
- Cleveland Clinic Department of Pathology, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Douglas R Fullen
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Paul W Harms
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Miles BA, Goldenberg D. Merkel cell carcinoma: Do you know your guidelines? Head Neck 2015; 38:647-52. [PMID: 26716756 DOI: 10.1002/hed.24359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2015] [Accepted: 11/04/2015] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a cutaneous neuroendocrine malignancy that exhibits clinically aggressive features and is associated with a poor prognosis. The incidence of MCC seems to be increasing for reasons unknown, and is estimated to be 0.32/100,000 in the United States. METHODS This article will review the current literature and National Comprehensive Cancer Network practice guidelines in the treatment of MCC. RESULTS Resection of MCC with negative margins remains the mainstay of therapy. Positive nodal disease should be treated with neck dissection and adjuvant radiotherapy. High-risk patients should undergo adjuvant radiotherapy, which improves oncologic outcomes. The role of chemotherapy is less clear and is currently reserved for advanced-stage MCC and palliative therapy. CONCLUSION The pathogenesis of MCC has recently been impacted with the discovery of the Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV). Research to establish targeted and immunologic therapeutic options are ongoing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brett A Miles
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Icahn School of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - David Goldenberg
- Department of Surgery, Division of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, The Pennsylvania State University, College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Harms PW, Vats P, Verhaegen ME, Robinson DR, Wu YM, Dhanasekaran SM, Palanisamy N, Siddiqui J, Cao X, Su F, Wang R, Xiao H, Kunju LP, Mehra R, Tomlins SA, Fullen DR, Bichakjian CK, Johnson TM, Dlugosz AA, Chinnaiyan AM. The Distinctive Mutational Spectra of Polyomavirus-Negative Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Cancer Res 2015. [PMID: 26238782 DOI: 10.1158/0008‐5472.can‐15‐0702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but highly aggressive cutaneous neuroendocrine tumor. Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) may contribute to tumorigenesis in a subset of tumors via inhibition of tumor suppressors such as retinoblastoma (RB1) by mutated viral T antigens, but the molecular pathogenesis of MCPyV-negative MCC is largely unexplored. Through our MI-ONCOSEQ precision oncology study, we performed integrative sequencing on two cases of MCPyV-negative MCC, as well as a validation cohort of 14 additional MCC cases (n = 16). In addition to previously identified mutations in TP53, RB1, and PIK3CA, we discovered activating mutations of oncogenes, including HRAS and loss-of-function mutations in PRUNE2 and NOTCH family genes in MCPyV-negative MCC. MCPyV-negative tumors also displayed high overall mutation burden (10.09 ± 2.32 mutations/Mb) and were characterized by a prominent UV-signature pattern with C > T transitions comprising 85% of mutations. In contrast, mutation burden was low in MCPyV-positive tumors (0.40 ± 0.09 mutations/Mb) and lacked a UV signature. These findings suggest a potential ontologic dichotomy in MCC, characterized by either viral-dependent or UV-dependent tumorigenic pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul William Harms
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan Medical School
| | - Pankaj Vats
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Biomedical Science, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, India
| | | | - Dan R Robinson
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School
| | - Yi-Mi Wu
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School
| | | | - Nallasivam Palanisamy
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Urology, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI
| | - Javed Siddiqui
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School
| | - Xuhong Cao
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109,USA
| | - Fengyun Su
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School
| | - Rui Wang
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School
| | - Hong Xiao
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Urology, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI
| | - Lakshmi P Kunju
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School
| | - Rohit Mehra
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Urology, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI
| | - Scott A Tomlins
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.,Department of Urology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 USA
| | - Douglas Randall Fullen
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan Medical School
| | | | | | - Andrzej Antoni Dlugosz
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, USA
| | - Arul M Chinnaiyan
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109,USA.,Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.,Department of Urology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 USA
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Cipolletta Campanile A, Malzone MG, Sanna V, Barizzi J, Manna A, Gioioso A, De Chiara A, Fulciniti F. Cytological and Immunocytochemical Features of Merkel Cell Carcinoma on Fine Needle Cytology Samples: A Study of 22 Cases. Endocr Pathol 2015; 26:243-9. [PMID: 25982258 DOI: 10.1007/s12022-015-9375-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an uncommon neuroendocrine small cell tumor derived from the transformation of the homonymous cells in the basal layer of the epidermis. MCC has a generally aggressive course, with a high tendency for local recurrence, lymph node involvement, and distant metastasis. Fine needle cytology (FNC) and immunocytochemistry were used as diagnostic procedures for 22 cases of MCC presented at our institute. All cases of MCC were successfully diagnosed on FNC. Among all of the monoclonal antisera used (CD56, CK20, CK MNF116, neuron-specific enolase (NSE), synaptophysin, and chromogranin), NSE and CD56 showed the highest frequency of positivity. The accuracy of the cytological diagnosis was 100% compared to the corresponding previous or subsequent pathological diagnoses. FNC and immunocytochemistry represent excellent and accurate diagnostic methods to distinguish MCC from other small-cell malignant entities.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anna Cipolletta Campanile
- S.S.D. di Citopatologia e S.C. di Anatomia Patologica, Istituto Nazionale Tumori "Fondazione G. Pascale", via Mariano Semmola, 80131, Napoli, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Saini AT, Miles BA. Merkel cell carcinoma of the head and neck: pathogenesis, current and emerging treatment options. Onco Targets Ther 2015; 8:2157-67. [PMID: 26316785 PMCID: PMC4548751 DOI: 10.2147/ott.s72202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a relatively uncommon, neuroendocrine, cutaneous malignancy that often exhibits clinically aggressive features and is associated with a poor prognosis. It typically presents as a painless, rapidly enlarging, dome-shaped red or purplish nodule in a sun-exposed area of the head and neck or upper extremities. Our understanding of MCC has increased dramatically over the last several years and the pathogenesis continues to be an area of active research. The etiology is likely multifactorial with immunosuppression, UV-induced skin damage, and viral factors contributing to the development of MCC. The recent discovery of Merkel cell polyomavirus has allowed for at least one aspect of disease development to be much better understood. In most cases, treatment consists of wide local excision with adjuvant radiation therapy. The role of chemotherapeutics is still being defined. The recent advancement of knowledge regarding the pathogenesis of MCC has led to an explosion research into novel therapeutic agents and strategies. This review seeks to summarize the current body of literature regarding the pathogenesis of MCC and potential targets for future therapies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alok T Saini
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Brett A Miles
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Mount Sinai Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Harms PW, Vats P, Verhaegen ME, Robinson DR, Wu YM, Dhanasekaran SM, Palanisamy N, Siddiqui J, Cao X, Su F, Wang R, Xiao H, Kunju LP, Mehra R, Tomlins SA, Fullen DR, Bichakjian CK, Johnson TM, Dlugosz AA, Chinnaiyan AM. The Distinctive Mutational Spectra of Polyomavirus-Negative Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Cancer Res 2015; 75:3720-3727. [PMID: 26238782 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-15-0702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 236] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2015] [Accepted: 07/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but highly aggressive cutaneous neuroendocrine tumor. Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) may contribute to tumorigenesis in a subset of tumors via inhibition of tumor suppressors such as retinoblastoma (RB1) by mutated viral T antigens, but the molecular pathogenesis of MCPyV-negative MCC is largely unexplored. Through our MI-ONCOSEQ precision oncology study, we performed integrative sequencing on two cases of MCPyV-negative MCC, as well as a validation cohort of 14 additional MCC cases (n = 16). In addition to previously identified mutations in TP53, RB1, and PIK3CA, we discovered activating mutations of oncogenes, including HRAS and loss-of-function mutations in PRUNE2 and NOTCH family genes in MCPyV-negative MCC. MCPyV-negative tumors also displayed high overall mutation burden (10.09 ± 2.32 mutations/Mb) and were characterized by a prominent UV-signature pattern with C > T transitions comprising 85% of mutations. In contrast, mutation burden was low in MCPyV-positive tumors (0.40 ± 0.09 mutations/Mb) and lacked a UV signature. These findings suggest a potential ontologic dichotomy in MCC, characterized by either viral-dependent or UV-dependent tumorigenic pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul William Harms
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan Medical School
| | - Pankaj Vats
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Biomedical Science, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli, India
| | | | - Dan R Robinson
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School
| | - Yi-Mi Wu
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School
| | | | - Nallasivam Palanisamy
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Urology, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI
| | - Javed Siddiqui
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School
| | - Xuhong Cao
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109,USA
| | - Fengyun Su
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School
| | - Rui Wang
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School
| | - Hong Xiao
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Urology, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI
| | - Lakshmi P Kunju
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School
| | - Rohit Mehra
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Urology, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI
| | - Scott A Tomlins
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.,Department of Urology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 USA
| | - Douglas Randall Fullen
- Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan Medical School
| | | | | | - Andrzej Antoni Dlugosz
- Department of Dermatology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Michigan Medical Center, Ann Arbor, USA
| | - Arul M Chinnaiyan
- Michigan Center for Translational Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Department of Pathology, University of Michigan Medical School.,Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109,USA.,Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.,Department of Urology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109 USA
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Cohen PR, Kurzrock R. Merkel Cell Carcinoma with a Suppressor of Fused (SUFU) Mutation: Case Report and Potential Therapeutic Implications. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb) 2015; 5:129-43. [PMID: 25876211 PMCID: PMC4470960 DOI: 10.1007/s13555-015-0074-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Merkel cell carcinoma is a neuroendocrine malignancy. Suppressor of fused (SUFU) is a tumor suppressor oncogene that participates in the Hedgehog (Hh) signaling pathway. The aim of the study was to describe a patient whose Merkel cell carcinoma demonstrated a SUFU genomic alteration. Case Study The Hh signaling pathway is involved in the pathogenesis of several tumors, including nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome that is associated with an alteration of the patched-1 (PTCH1) gene. Targeted molecular therapy against smoothened (SMO) with vismodegib has been shown to be an effective therapeutic intervention for patients with PTCH-1 mutation. The reported patient was presented with metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma. Analysis of his tumor, using a next-generation sequencing-based assay, demonstrated a genomic aberration of SUFU protein, a component of the Hh signaling pathway that acts downstream to SMO and, therefore, is unlikely to be responsive to vismodegib. Of interest, arsenic trioxide or bromo and extra C-terminal inhibitors impact signals downstream to SUFU, making this aberration conceivably druggable. His tumor has initially been managed with chemotherapy (carboplatin and etoposide) and subsequent radiation therapy is planned. Conclusion The pathogenesis of Merkel cell carcinoma is multifactorial, and related to ultraviolet radiation exposure, immunosuppression, and Merkel cell polyomavirus. We report a patient with a mutation in SUFU, a potentially actionable component of the Hh signaling pathway. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s13555-015-0074-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Philip R Cohen
- Department of Dermatology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA, USA,
| | | |
Collapse
|