1. By: Angelica Sell

2. * Merkel Cell Carcinoma is a rare type of skin cancer that usually appears on your face, head, or neck. * Also called neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin occurs when merkel cells, found on the top layer of skin very close to nerve endings, grow out of control.

4. * A fast growing, painless nodule on your skin that may be skin colored or shades of red, blue or purple.

5. * Direct causes are unknown but sun exposure and having a weak immune system may heighten the risk of developing it. * Also age is a main factor in MCC.

6. * Surgery * Radiation Therapy * Chemotherapy

7. * If MCC is left untreated the tumor may spread to any distant parts of the body such as the liver, lungs, bones and brain and result in death.

8. 1. About 1,500 cases are found in the U.S. each year but is rising quickly. 2. Discovered by doctors only about 40 years ago. 3. More than 9 out of 10 people diagnosed with MCC are over the age 50, and more than 2 out of 3 are older than 70.

9. * http://www.merkelcell.org/clinicalPhotos/ind ex.php http://www.merkelcell.org/clinicalPhotos/ind ex.php * http://www.webmd.com/cancer/tc/merkel- cell-carcinoma-treatment-patient-information- nci-pdq-stages-of-merkel-cell-carcinoma http://www.webmd.com/cancer/tc/merkel- cell-carcinoma-treatment-patient-information- nci-pdq-stages-of-merkel-cell-carcinoma * http://www.riversideonline.com/health_refere nce/Cancer/DS00802.cfm