Spinal Metastasis from Merkel Cell Carcinoma in an Elderly Male

Authors

Kalah Jockisch
Yazan Abdeen
Carlisle Alderink
Tony Flippin
Sugabramya Kuru
Hamid Shaaban, New York Medical CollegeFollow

DOI

10.4103/ajns.AJNS_5_18

Journal Title

Asian Journal of Neurosurgery

First Page

128

Last Page

131

Document Type

Case Report

Publication Date

2-2020

Department

Medicine

Abstract

Merkel cell carcinoma is a cutaneous neuroendocrine malignancy that has an aggressive nature. Classically, it affects the elderly Caucasian population with a predilection for the sun-exposed areas of the body. Pathogenesis has been linked to ultraviolet radiation, immunosuppression, and the Merkel cell polyomavirus. Definitive diagnosis entails histologic evaluation and immunohistochemical staining. With its generalized appearance and tendency for metastasis, a high index of suspicion must be utilized. In this case, we present the unique presentation of Merkel cell carcinoma as a rapidly enlarging lymph node with metastatic disease to the spinal column presenting as new-onset low back and radicular pain.

Recommended Citation

Jockisch, K., Abdeen, Y., Alderink, C., Flippin, T., Kuru, S., & Shaaban, H. (2020). Spinal Metastasis from Merkel Cell Carcinoma in an Elderly Male. Asian Journal of Neurosurgery, 15 (1), 128-131. https://doi.org/10.4103/ajns.AJNS_5_18