Our team based in Seattle conducted a comprehensive review including evolving trends in the management of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). This summary covers key decision points, including recommended work-up during initial diagnosis, treatment options for MCC when it’s in one place or has spread, management of recurrent MCC, and new treatments that are showing promise with fewer side effects and good results. This review gives valuable information on how to handle MCC overall and emphasizes new methods that are effective and less toxic on patients.
BACKGROUND
It is unclear which subgroups of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) patients benefit the most from radiation. We surveyed radiation oncologists (RO) that regularly see and treat MCC to understand how they approach the treatment of early-stage MCC.
METHODS
A web-based survey was emailed to 63 ROs, who were identified through publications, guideline panel membership, and/or affiliation with institutions of high MCC volume. ROs provided treatment recommendations for two hypothetical case scenarios of early stage MCC.
RESULTS
Among 28 respondents (45%), 26 regularly saw and treated MCC patients for a median 7 years (range, 0-30). While all ROs recommended adjuvant radiation for a stage II upper extremity MCC, only 48% recommended adjuvant radiation for stage I head and neck MCC.
CONCLUSION
Among US-based MCC RO ‘specialists,’ there is equipoise on the role of radiotherapy for stage I MCC. Ideally, prospective studies are needed to identify which patients may benefit from radiation.