How does Merkel cell carcinoma appear on the skin?

MCC does not have a distinctive appearance (see photograph below). It usually develops on sun-exposed skin (e.g., head, neck, arms) as a painless, firm, flesh-colored to red or blue bump. Frequently, patients seek advice from their doctor because the bump is growing rapidly or the overlying skin is breaking down. Most MCCs are diagnosed when a skin biopsy is performed to rule out another sun-induced skin cancer or a cyst. In the vast majority of cases, both the doctor and the patient are surprised by the diagnosis of MCC.

Merkel cell carcinoma on the lip of a 92-year-old man

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