Carcinoma, Merkel Cell

**Definition:** A carcinoma arising from MERKEL CELLS located in the basal layer of the epidermis and occurring most commonly as a primary neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin. Merkel cells are tactile cells of neuroectodermal origin and histologically show neurosecretory granules. The skin of the head and neck are a common site of Merkel cell carcinoma, occurring generally in elderly patients. (Holland et al., Cancer Medicine, 3d ed, p1245)

**Tree numbers:** - C01.925.256.721.150 - C01.925.928.216 - C04.557.465.625.650.240.325 - C04.557.470.200.025.370.325 - C04.557.580.625.650.240.325

**Synonyms:** - Merkel Cell Cancer - Merkel Cell Carcinoma - Merkel Cell Tumor - Merkle Tumors