label: Merkel cell skin cancer
label_lc: merkel cell skin cancer
description: A malignant cutaneous tumor of the elderly that is characterized by an aggressive course with regional nodal involvement, distant metastases and a high rate of recurrence. Most patients present with rapidly growing, painless, firm, non-tender, dome-shaped red, occasionally ulcerated skin nodules, which have a red or bluish color, measuring up to several centimeters, on predominantly sun-exposed areas of the body. The overlying skin is smooth and shiny, sometimes exhibiting ulcerative, acneiform or telangiectatic features.