[Merkel cell carcinoma of the skin in a patient with myasthenia gravis]

Minerva Med. 2002 Jun;93(3):219-22.
[Article in Italian]

Abstract

Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare, aggressive neuroendocrine tumor of the skin commonly seen in the elderly on the head, neck and extremities, with a predisposition for local regional and distant spreading. A case of Merkel cell carcinoma occurred in a woman treated with immunosuppressive therapy for myasthenia gravis, is described and the possibility of a link between the immunosuppressive and/or oncogenic therapy and this tumor is suggested.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Carcinoma, Merkel Cell / complications*
  • Carcinoma, Merkel Cell / pathology
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / adverse effects
  • Myasthenia Gravis / complications*
  • Myasthenia Gravis / drug therapy
  • Skin Neoplasms / complications*
  • Skin Neoplasms / pathology

Substances

  • Immunosuppressive Agents