Merkel Cell Carcinoma of the Axilla and Adrenal Gland: A Case Report with Imaging and Pathologic Findings

Case Rep Med. 2015:2015:931238. doi: 10.1155/2015/931238. Epub 2015 May 17.

Abstract

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and aggressive neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin. MCC is characterized by a high incidence of locoregional recurrence, and distant metastasis, and often requires short-term follow-up after treatment. In this present paper, we describe a rare case of MCC, which presented as a palpable axillary mass and an incidental adrenal mass, and report on the ultrasonography, computed tomography, and (18)F-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography findings. The patient underwent surgery and adjuvant radiation therapy. Seven months after the initial diagnosis, distant metastasis was detected during a follow-up examination.