Merkel Cell Carcinoma Program

Our approach to care for Merkel cell carcinoma

Our surgeons bring extensive experience in treating skin cancers. When surgery is needed, they use advanced, minimally invasive techniques to safely remove cancer while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible and minimizing scarring.

These approaches may include sentinel lymph node biopsy to track whether cancer has spread, and, in some cases, index node excision after neoadjuvant therapy.

Our radiation oncologists are among the best in the world at precision therapies that spare healthy tissue. These methods create 3D maps of tumors to guide targeted treatments:

• Intensity modulated radiation therapy adjusts beam strength for tumor areas based on their distance from normal tissues.
• Volumetric modulated arc radiotherapy adjusts beam strength according to the thickest areas of the tumor.

Our medical oncologists offer innovative approaches, including immune-stimulating medications and chemotherapeutic medications that shrink early tumors.

Our specially trained team also provides personal attention and advice on coping with side effects of medications for cancer.