Merkel cell carcinoma arising in the ear canal

Int J Surg Pathol. 2008 Jul;16(3):337-40. doi: 10.1177/1066896907312670. Epub 2008 Apr 2.

Abstract

A case of rare tumor, Merkel cell carcinoma, located in the ear canal of a 25-year-old woman is presented. A polypoid tumor mass was extirpated, and tympanoplasty was done at the first operation, whereas at the second operation, all the bones of the ear canal were removed. Epitympanum and cavum were filled with tumor, and the tumor mass was removed in toto. The histopathology and immunohistochemical staining characteristics of tumor confirmed the presence of Merkel cell tumor. Postoperatively, radiation therapy to the tumor bed was completed. There was no clinical or radiographic evidence of recurrence or metastasis of Merkel cell tumor for 3 years.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Carcinoma, Merkel Cell / pathology*
  • Carcinoma, Merkel Cell / radiotherapy
  • Carcinoma, Merkel Cell / surgery
  • Disease-Free Survival
  • Ear Canal / pathology*
  • Ear Canal / surgery
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local
  • Skin Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Skin Neoplasms / radiotherapy
  • Skin Neoplasms / surgery
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed