It's no secret that melanoma is the most deadly type of skin cancer, but it's not the only kind that can be dangerous. Merkel cell carcinoma, although rare, is both serious and aggressive. Interestingly, the immune system can play a role in its development and treatment.
At his private practice located in Santa Monica, California, Dr. Trevan Fischer uses his expert skills as a complex general surgical oncologist to diagnose and treat multiple types of skin cancer, including Merkel cell carcinoma.
When he is not caring for patients, he is helping to advance the field by conducting research and training surgical oncology fellows at Cedars-Sinai affiliate The Angeles Clinic and Research Institute.
About 3,000 people in the United States receive a diagnosis of Merkel cell carcinoma each year.
It can develop anywhere, but often grows as a bump on areas of the skin exposed to sunlight. It can appear in a variety of colors, ranging from pink or purple to red-brown or even the same shade as the person's skin.
There are several risk factors that can increase an individual's risk of Merkel cell carcinoma.
Damage from ultraviolet light, including sun exposure and use of tanning beds, is one. While anyone can get this type of cancer, having a lighter skin color and being older than age 50 are two additional factors that can make the odds more likely.
A person’s health can also play a role. Those with a history of other skin cancers, such as basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, can have a higher risk. A weakened immune system can also be a factor.
Those with a weakened immune system have a greater chance of getting Merkel cell carcinoma. This includes people with HIV/AIDS or a kidney or heart transplant. People with chronic lymphocytic leukemia or an autoimmune disease that necessitates taking immunosuppressive medications are also at higher risk.
The odds of someone with HIV getting Merkel cell carcinoma are eight times higher than the average person. With an organ transplant, it's 10 times more, and in the case of chronic lymphocytic leukemia, it's 40 times greater.
Treatment requires removing the tumor and potentially chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiation therapy.
The immune system is also key. People with a strong immune response tend to do better, while those who take specific medications that decrease immune function are more likely to have the cancer return.
Whether you have found a suspicious growth or have already been diagnosed with Merkel cell carcinoma, Dr. Fischer can help. Click to book an appointment or call the office today at 310-807-2688.
