Merkel cell carcinoma : causes , symptoms , prevention

MERKEL CELL CARCINOMA 

Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare type of skin cancer that usually appears as a flesh colored or bluish red nodule , often on your face, head and neck . Merkel cell carcinoma is also called neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin . 



Merkel cell carcinoma most often develop in older people . long term sun exposure or a weak immune system may increase  your risk of developing Merkel cell carcinoma . 

SYMPTOMS 

The first sign of Merkel cell carcinoma is usually a fast growing ,  painless nodule on your skin . the nodule may be skin colored or may appeared in shades of red , blue  or purple . most Merkel cell carcinoma appear on the face , head or neck , but they can develop anywhere on your body, even on areas not exposed to sunlight . 





CAUSES

It's not clear  causes Merkel cell carcinoma . Merkel cell carcinoma begins in the Merkel cells . Merkel cells are found at the base of the outermost layer of your skin . Merkel cell carcinoma are connected to the nerve ending in the skin that are responsible for the sense of touch .

Researchers  recently discovered  that a common virus plays a role in causing most cases of Merkel cell carcinoma . the virus lives on the skin and doesn't cause any sign or symptoms . this virus causes Merkel cell carcinoma  has yet to be determined . the virus is very common and Merkel cell carcinoma is very rare , that other risk  factors  play a role in the development of this cancer. 

PREVENTION 

While exposure to sunlight to cause Merkel cell carcinoma , it is considered a risk factor for this cancer . reducing your sun exposure may reduce your risk of skin cancer . 

- avoid sun exposure as much as possible during the strongest sunlight hours of the day - typically from 10 am to 4 pm . move outdoor activities to a time  earlier in the morning  or later in the day .

- wear a wide brimmed hat, tightly woven clothing and sunglasses with ultraviolet [ UV ] light protection .

- use a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 , even on cloudy  days . apply sunscreen generously , and reapply every two hours - or more often if you're swimming or perspiring . 

- Most skin nodules never become cancer, but catching cancer in its early stages  increases the chances that treatments will be successful . 

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