I'm Relieved to Learn the Lump In My Breast is a Fibroadenoma, But What Next?
Not all breast lumps are cancer. In fact, most are benign and include diagnoses such as fibroadenomas. Read on to learn what these masses are and how they are treated.
Why Is Merkel Cell Carcinoma So Aggressive?
Merkel cell carcinoma is one of the lesser-known types of skin cancer. However, its aggressive nature makes it important to know the signs to watch for. As with other kinds of cancer, the earlier it is caught and treated, the better the prognosis.
As an experienced complex general surgical oncologist with a private practice in Santa Monica, California, Dr. Trevan Fischer uses state-of-the-art techniques to treat a range of conditions, from skin and other cancers to benign breast disease and other health problems that can be addressed with minimally invasive surgery.
He also keeps up with the latest findings and treatments through his role as a researcher on clinical trials at the Saint John's Cancer Institute.
Merkel cell carcinoma
Merkel cell carcinoma grows deep in the cells of the top layer of the skin near the nerve endings. It typically appears as a raised lump or dome shape on the face, eyelids, neck, arms, or other areas exposed to the sun. It can be red or violet and is often painless.
Aggressive spreading
This type of cancer is rare, with about 3,000 new cases diagnosed each year. However, when it strikes, it is aggressive and is the second deadliest kind of skin cancer after melanoma.
Merkel cell carcinoma grows quickly and spreads even at an early stage. It typically first moves to nearby lymph nodes and then expands to more lymph nodes and skin on other parts of the body, as well as the brain, bones, lungs, and other organs.
This cancer often returns and spreads after initial treatment. This frequently occurs within two or three years of diagnosis.
Risk factors
Anyone can get Merkel cell carcinoma. However, men over 50 and with fair skin are at higher risk.
Other contributing factors include a history of a previous type of skin cancer, skin damage due to UV radiation from the sun or tanning beds, or receiving phototherapy to treat psoriasis or other skin issues. A weakened immune system or taking certain medications, including immunosuppressants, also increases the risks.
Diagnosis and treatment
A diagnosis is typically made through a physical examination, removal, and biopsy of the lump. If it is cancer, a perimeter of healthy tissue is also removed to ensure the area is free from cancer cells.
The nearest lymph node, known as the sentinel lymph node, is also biopsied to determine if the cancer has spread. If it has, additional treatment options are determined.
It's essential to diagnose all types of cancer early, but this is especially true for Merkel cell carcinoma, given its aggressiveness. Whether you have noticed a strange lump or have already received a diagnosis, Dr. Fischer can help. Click to book an appointment or call the office today at 310-807-2688.
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