[Primary neuroendocrine cutaneous carcinoma or Merkel cell carcinoma. Review of the literature]

Abstract

The neuroendocrine carcinomas of the skin, also called Merkel cell carcinomas, are unusual malignancies mostly observed in the elderly. They are diagnosed by a pathologist: ultrastructural studies and immunohistochemistry support the diagnosis. The prognosis is poor. Lymph nodes and metastases quickly arise although sometimes, they are discovered immediately. A combination of surgery and radiotherapy is recommended. Metastases and unresectable tumors should be treated by chemotherapy.