Need Treatment for Merkel Cell Carcinoma? Top Oncology Care in Tel Aviv
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare but aggressive skin cancer that starts in the skin’s neuroendocrine cells. It accounts for less than 1% of all skin tumors, with 650–700 new cases diagnosed annually. The highest incidence is observed among individuals aged 65–70. Men are affected approximately 1.5 times more often than women.
What We Offer Our Patients:
- At TAMC, we offer fast and accurate diagnostics, a dedicated multidisciplinary team, and personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs.
- Participation in clinical trials of new medications or treatment methods – completely free of charge.
- Innovative genetic diagnostics, enabling not only 100% confirmation of the diagnosis but also detailed molecular-genetic analysis of tumor cells to create the most effective treatment protocol for each patient (personalized oncology).
- Advanced and sometimes experimental skin cancer treatments.
- Treatment from best oncologist for Merkel carcinoma in Israel with international reputations.
- Modern immunobiological therapy, including Vismodegib and Sonidegib (Hedgehog pathway inhibitors), Cemiplimab (PD-1 inhibitor), Pembrolizumab (Keytruda), Imiquimod, Erlotinib (Tarceva), and Panitumumab.
- Minimally invasive procedures such as Mohs micrographic surgery, laser or photodynamic tumor removal, and cryotherapy.
- Radiation therapy using modern, safe equipment.
What Causes Merkel Cell Carcinoma and Who’s at Risk?
Risk Factors for MCC: What You Should Know
The development of Merkel cell carcinoma is caused by spontaneous mutations in the genetic material of skin cells. These mutations trigger rapid, uncontrolled cell proliferation, forming a tumor. This atypical transformation is influenced by the following risk factors:
- Age over 65
- Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation
- Immunodeficiency
- History of organ transplantation
- Presence of polyomavirus
- Chronic lymphocytic leukemia
- HIV infection
How Does Merkel Cell Carcinoma Develop in the Body?
Understanding How MCC Begins and Spreads
Merkel cells in the skin are specialized epithelial cells responsible for tactile sensation. Although they exist throughout the body, they are most concentrated in the skin of the fingertips. A combination of risk factors and age-related changes in skin structure initiates the atypical transformation of Merkel cells.
A distinctive feature of Merkel cell carcinoma is that the atypical epithelial cells acquire properties of endocrine cells that produce hormones. Therefore, this type of skin cancer is classified as neuroendocrine.
TNM Staging System
The TNM classification describes the size and spread of the primary tumor and the presence of metastases. It is used to establish diagnosis and guide treatment planning.
T – Primary Tumor
- Tx – No information about the primary tumor
- T0 – No primary tumor
- Tis – Carcinoma in situ (non-invasive)
- T1 – Tumor ≤ 2 cm
- T2 – Tumor 2–5 cm
- T3 – Tumor > 5 cm
- T4 – Tumor invades underlying muscles and bones
N – Regional Lymph Nodes
- Nx – No data on lymph nodes
- N0 – No metastases in regional lymph nodes
- N1 – Metastases present in regional lymph nodes
- N2 – Atypical cells in lymph nodes without metastases
- N3 – Transit atypical cells and metastases in lymph nodes
M – Distant Metastases
- M0 – No distant metastases
- M1 – Metastases in lungs, liver, brain, bones
Early and Late Symptoms
Symptoms of Merkel cell carcinoma are non-specific and resemble those of other skin cancers. Visually, the tumor appears as a pink or reddish-purple nodule with clear borders and a smooth, shiny surface. It is painless and typically found in sun-exposed areas: face, neck, upper chest, arms, or legs.
The main sign of malignancy is rapid growth — the tumor can double in size within three months. Its external appearance is not sufficient for diagnosis through visual examination or dermatoscopy.
In early stages, there are usually no systemic symptoms. Since the lesion is painless, patients may delay visiting a dermatologist, leading to late diagnoses — the average time from symptom onset to definitive diagnosis is 5–7 years. This significantly worsens prognosis and early detection.
From stage III onward, the tumor may change in appearance, developing ulcerations and bleeding on the surface. Surrounding tissues become painful. Systemic symptoms of cancer intoxication include:
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Muscle and joint pain
- Pale skin
Neuroendocrine tumors are often accompanied by the clinical picture of carcinoid syndrome – hot flashes in the form of hyperemia of the skin of the face and upper half of the body, accompanied by a feeling of heat, sometimes tachycardia, a drop in blood pressure. Carcinoid syndrome is observed in approximately 25% of patients, usually when metastases occur. The spread of metastases to other organs causes a violation of their function and corresponding symptoms:
- when the liver is affected, jaundice, pain in the right hypochondrium, nausea, an enlarged abdomen appear;
- when the lungs are affected – constant cough, hemoptysis, chest pain;
- when the brain is affected, neurological symptoms depend on the localization of metastases – gait disturbance, instability, loss of speech, unilateral or bilateral paralysis.
Advanced Diagnostic Methods for MCC Patients
From Biopsy to Imaging: How We Detect Merkel Cell Carcinoma
When a tumor node appears on the skin, a person consults an endocrinologist. The doctor examines the neoplasm and collects anamnesis. The dermatologist asks the patient questions:
- how long ago did the node appear?
- how fast is it growing?
- are there any subjective sensations – itching, pain in the tumor area, general malaise?
- do any relatives have cancer?
The next stage of diagnostics is dermatoscopy. Examination of the skin neoplasm under a microscope gives the doctor a suspicion of tumor malignancy. The diagnosis can only be established by histological examination. The doctor takes several pieces of tissue from different areas of the tumor. In the laboratory, they prepare material for analysis.
Immunohistochemical research is carried out in several ways:
- with monoclonal antibodies;
- with determination of epithelial differentiation;
- with determination of neuroendocrine differentiation.
Laboratory diagnostics for Merkel cell carcinoma are of little use. Tests are prescribed to detect dysfunction of organs affected by metastases:
- a general blood test will reveal anemia;
- a biochemical analysis will indicate liver damage;
- a blood clotting test will reveal a tendency to bleeding or thrombus formation;
- a study of tumor markers will give a suspicion of cancerous damage to other organs.
To search for distant metastases, an instrumental examination is performed:
- chest X-ray;
- ultrasound of the abdominal organs, pelvis;
- MRI of the brain;
- bone scintigraphy.
Diagnostic methods
- Blood test for specific tumor markers
- Laboratory diagnostics (tests)
- Squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCC)
- Skin biopsy
- Oncologist consultation
- Histological examination
Latest Treatments for Merkel Cell Carcinoma at TAMC
How We Treat MCC in Israel: Surgery, Radiation & Immunotherapy
Merkel cell carcinoma treatment is combined and includes surgical and conservative methods. Treatment tactics depend on the stage of the disease and the general health of the patient. Oncologists use clinical guidelines to select a treatment regimen.
Surgical treatment
At stages 0-II of the disease, surgery is the main method of radical treatment. The surgeon removes the tumor itself and 1-2 cm of surrounding healthy tissue. With a high risk of metastasis, detection of atypical cells at the edges of the surgical wound, adjuvant radiation therapy is performed. Irradiation destroys the remains of atypical cells, reducing the risk of relapse.
At stage III of the disease, if the tumor is resectable, it is removed. At the same time, the surgeon removes all accessible lymph nodes where metastases are found. Subcutaneous tissue is excised along with the lymph nodes. A course of radiation therapy is performed after the surgery.
Surgery is not performed at stage IV cancer, since the tumor becomes unresectable. In some cases, lymphadenectomy of the nodes affected by metastases is performed.
Radiation therapy
It is used mainly as an adjuvant postoperative method to reduce the risk of carcinoma recurrence and improve the survival prognosis. At the metastatic stage of Merkel cell carcinoma, radiation therapy leads not only to a decrease in the size of the tumor, but also to an improvement in the well-being of patients. For inoperable tumors, radiation is combined with chemotherapy.
Chemotherapy and immunotherapy
Indicated in unresectable stages III and IV cancer as an independent treatment method. Cytostatics and monoclonal antibodies are used. The course of treatment consists of 4-6 cycles of drug administration; in the first line of therapy, their administration shows good results.
Palliative care
Indicated for inoperable patients to prolong life and improve its quality. Principles of palliative therapy:
- complete balanced nutrition;
- adequate pain relief with narcotic analgesics;
- antiemetic drugs;
- hygienic care of the skin around the tumor;
- treatment of HIV infection;
- psychological support.
What’s the Survival Rate for MCC? Can It Be Prevented?
Merkel Cell Carcinoma Prognosis and How to Lower Your Risk
The prognosis for Merkel cell skin cancer depends on the timeliness of treatment. At an early stage, radical surgery allows for a complete recovery. The appearance of metastases dramatically worsens the prognosis.
Five-year survival rates:
- Stage I – 98%
- Stage II – 80–85%
- Stage III – 50–60%
- Stage IV – 8–10%
HIV infection worsens prognosis. Patients with weakened immunity develop MCC at younger ages and have higher mortality. Antiretroviral therapy slows tumor progression and improves survival.
Prevention is limited due to the spontaneous nature of MCC. Recommended actions:
- Annual HIV testing
- Avoid excess UV exposure and skin trauma
- Consult a dermatologist for suspicious lesions
Secondary prevention involves lifelong follow-up with an oncologist to detect and treat recurrences early.
Looking for fast, effective Merkel Cell Carcinoma treatment in Israel?
At TAMC in Tel Aviv, we offer advanced diagnostics, access to clinical trials, and personalized care by leading oncologists.
📞 +972-73-374-6844 | 💬 WhatsApp +972-52-337-3108 | Email: [email protected]
FAQ: Merkel Cell Carcinoma )MCC) Treatment in Israel – What You Need to Know
1. Does TAMC offer private treatment for Merkel cell carcinoma?
Yes, our clinic provides the opportunity for private treatment of Merkel cell carcinoma in Israel. We accept patients from Israel and all over the world for treatment and consultation.
2. Can I schedule a private online consultation for MCC treatment in Israel?
Yes, you can. TAMC offers online consultations with leading Merkel cell carcinoma specialists (second opinion) with a skin cancer specialist. To do this, you need to write to the email [email protected] or write to WhatsApp +972523373108 and our staff will promptly respond to you and help. You can also contact the medical tourism department regarding coming to Israel for treatment
3. Do you treat Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) in its late stages?
Yes. In our center there are specialists who are responsible for clinical work in the field of Oncology and in particular in the direction of Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). You can apply for Clinical trials for patients with skin cancer by e-mail [email protected] or write to WhatsApp +972523373108 and our staff will promptly respond to you and help.
4. What is the best treatment for MCC cancer in Israel?
At TAMC in Tel Aviv, we provide advanced and personalized treatment plans for non-melanoma skin cancer, including surgical removal (Mohs surgery), immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and access to clinical trials. The choice depends on the type and stage of the cancer.
5. Can international patients receive treatment for skin cancer?
Yes. TAMC offers full coordination for international patients, including remote consultations, second opinions, and complete diagnostic and treatment programs in English, Russian, or Hebrew.
6. How is the diagnostics carried out for Merkel cell carcinoma cancer?
Diagnosis at TAMC includes dermatologist evaluation, dermatoscopy, biopsy, and advanced molecular testing. We also use imaging techniques like MRI, CT, and PET-CT to determine the cancer stage.
7. What are the most effective treatments for Merkel cell carcinoma in Israel?
Absolutely. Patients at TAMC may qualify for participation in clinical trials involving new immunotherapy or targeted drugs.
8. What is the cost of private advanced oncology care for skin cancer patients?
Costs vary depending on the complexity of diagnosis and treatment. We offer personalized quotes after reviewing your medical documents. Consultations, genetic testing, and surgery can be arranged within days.
9. How long does it take to receive treatment after diagnosis?
At TAMC, most patients begin treatment within 3–5 working days after completing diagnostic procedures. We offer all services under one roof to minimize waiting times.
