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 carc...