Treatment of Inoperable Stage III or Stage IV Metastatic Merkel Cell Carcinoma

Clinical Scenario

This protocol addresses inoperable stage III or stage IV (metastatic) Merkel cell carcinoma — an advanced presentation where surgical resection is not feasible. Despite recent advances in diagnosis and treatment, inoperable stage III and IV MCC remain incurable, underscoring the importance of specialist-led care.

Treatment Approach

Management at this stage centres on individualised multimodality treatment within referral centres experienced in rare skin cancers, where access to clinical trials is a key consideration. The complete treatment pathway — including preferred and alternative approaches for this specific setting — is outlined in the full protocol.

Instant Access to Structured Evidence-Based Regimens

References

DOI: 10.1016/j.esmoop.2024.102977

Despite the recent advances in diagnosis and treatment, inoperable stage III and IV MCC remain incurable.

Patients should receive individualised multimodality treatment in referral centres for rare skin cancers with access to clinical trials.

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