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Zhu Y, Yin Y, Li F, Ren Z, Dong Y. A review on the oncogenesis of Merkel cell carcinoma: Several subsets arise from different stages of differentiation of stem cell. Medicine (Baltimore) 2023; 102:e33535. [PMID: 37058042 PMCID: PMC10101282 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000033535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), a rare primary cutaneous neuroendocrine neoplasm, is extremely aggressive and has a higher mortality rate than melanoma. Based on Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) status and morphology, MCCs are often divided into several distinct subsets: pure MCPyV-positive, pure MCPyV-negative, and combined MCC. MCPyV-positive MCC develops by the clonal integration of viral DNA, whereas MCPyV-negative MCC is induced by frequent ultraviolet (UV)-mediated mutations, that are characterized by a high mutational burden, UV signature mutations, and many mutations in TP53 and retinoblastoma suppressor gene (RB1). Combined MCC consists of an intimate mix of MCC and other cutaneous tumor populations, and is usually MCPyV-negative, with rare exceptions. Based on the existing subsets of MCC, it is speculated that there are at least 4 stages in the natural history of stem cell differentiation: primitive pluripotent stem cells, divergent differentiated stem cells, unidirectional stem cells, and Merkel cells (or epidermal/adnexal cells). In the first stage, MCPyV may integrate into the genome of primitive pluripotent stem cells, driving oncogenesis in pure MCPyV-positive MCC. If MCPyV integration does not occur, the stem cells enter the second stage and acquire the ability to undergo multidirectional neuroendocrine and epidermal (or adnexal) differentiation. At this stage, accumulated UV-mediated mutations may drive the development of combined MCC. In the third stage, the stem cells differentiate into unidirectional neuroendocrine stem cells, UV-mediated mutations can induce carcinogenesis in pure MCPyV-negative MCC. Therefore, it has been speculated that several subsets of MCCs arise from different stages of differentiation of common stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yueyang Zhu
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Yuan Yin
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Fuqiang Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Zhiyuan Ren
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, Champaign, IL
| | - Yaru Dong
- Department of Ophthalmology, The Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin, China
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Liu CY, Kang NW, Takeuchi K, Chuang SS. Combined Merkel Cell Carcinoma with Nodal Presentation: Report of a Case Diagnosed with Excisional but Not Incisional Biopsy and Literature Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13030449. [PMID: 36766554 PMCID: PMC9914145 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13030449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare primary neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC) of the skin. As compared to pure MCCs, combined MCCs are aggressive and exhibit a higher probability of metastasis. A correct diagnosis might be missed, especially when the biopsy sample is too small or too superficial. We report a 79-year-old Taiwanese male who presented with lymphadenopathy suspicious for lymphoma. A nodal biopsy showed metastatic NEC. A skin tumor in the lower back was identified, and an incisional biopsy showed only squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). A subsequent excisional biopsy was performed based on the advice of the senior pathologist because of the presence of metastatic nodal NEC. Finally, a diagnosis of combined MCC and SCC was confirmed. Our literature review identified 13 cases of combined MCC with nodal metastasis as initial presentations, all with an aggressive clinical course. Both the MCC and non-MCC components could be present in the metastatic nodes. Metastases of pure MCC cells were observed in three combined MCCs in sun-protected areas, probably pointing to a distinct pathogenesis. Excision or punch biopsy to include the deep dermal NEC component is recommended as timely diagnosis is mandatory for appropriate management of patients with this rare skin cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Yi Liu
- Division of Pathology, Sijhih Cathay General Hospital, New Taipei City 221, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City 221, Taiwan
| | - Nai-Wen Kang
- Division of Hemato-Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine, Chi-Mei Medical Center, Tainan 710, Taiwan
| | - Kengo Takeuchi
- Division of Pathology, Cancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan
- Pathology Project for Molecular Targets, Cancer Institute, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan
- Department of Pathology, Cancer Institute Hospital, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research, Tokyo 135-8550, Japan
| | - Shih-Sung Chuang
- Department of Pathology, Chi-Mei Medical Center, Tainan 710, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-6-2812811 (ext. 53686)
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Sun J, Zhang L, Xiao M, Li S, Chen R, Li Y, Yang Y. Systematic analysis and case series of the diagnosis and management of trichilemmal carcinoma. Front Oncol 2023; 12:1078272. [PMID: 36727056 PMCID: PMC9886092 DOI: 10.3389/fonc.2022.1078272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Trichilemmal carcinoma (TLC) is a rare malignant cutaneous adnexal neoplasm, with no relatively comprehensive research. Objective The aim of this study is to perform an updated statistical analysis so as to better understand TLC's epidemiology, clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment. Methods The diagnosis and treatment of three TLC cases in our department were summarized. Then, all TLC cases published in the literature were retrieved for a comprehensive analysis, followed by the analysis of global trends and regional distribution, demographic characteristics, clinical features, pathogenesis, histopathological features, and treatment and prognosis of TLC. Results Of the 231 cases, the incidence of TLC has shown an upward trend recently, especially in China, in Asia. The susceptible population is men aged 60-80 and women over 80, and the most prone location is head and neck. The phenotype of TLC is not always typical and may be misdiagnosed because of the coexistence of other diseases. There is a linear relationship between the diameter and its duration or thickness. UV, locally present skin lesions, trauma, scarring, organ transplantation, and genetic disorders may trigger the occurrence of TLC. Periodic acid-Schiff staining and CD34, but not Epithelial Membrane Antigen (EMA), were helpful in the diagnosis of TLC. Although effective, surgical excision and Mohs micrographic surgery need further improvement to reduce recurrence of TLC. Carcinoma history is an independent risk factor for TLC recurrence. Limitations The limitation of this study is the lack of randomized controlled trial on TLC treatment and recurrence. Conclusion TLC has the possibility of invasive growth and recurrence, especially in patients with longer duration and carcinoma history.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiachen Sun
- Department of Dermatology, Fourth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Lihua Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Fourth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Minglu Xiao
- Department of Dermatology, Fourth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Shiyi Li
- Department of Burns and Plastic Surgery, Fourth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Runkai Chen
- Department of General Surgery, First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Li
- Department of Pathology, Fourth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yuguang Yang
- Department of Dermatology, Fourth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Yuguang Yang,
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Vanderbeck K, Cho WC, Aung PP, Ivan D, Rothrock AT, Torres-Cabala CA, Prieto VG, Curry JL, Nagarajan P. Ductal differentiation: A rare phenomenon in Merkel cell carcinoma. J Cutan Pathol 2022; 50:511-519. [PMID: 36454019 DOI: 10.1111/cup.14372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is an aggressive cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma that may occasionally present divergent histopathologic features. We present two cases of MCC demonstrating ductal differentiation, one on the lower lip of an 81-year-old man and another on the right forearm of a 67-year-old man. The histopathologic features included TTF1-negative, infiltrative, high-grade basaloid tumor with paranuclear punctate positivity for cytokeratin (CK) 20 and synaptophysin. Rare luminal structures lined by atypical epithelioid cells positive for CEA and CK19 were noted, confirming the presence of ductal differentiation. Although the ductal differentiation is unusual, other histopathologic features and the immunohistochemical profile supported the diagnosis of MCC. Like most divergent features, ductal differentiation is rare in MCC and typically constitutes a very small proportion of the tumor, and is therefore under-recognized. Although the clinical significance of this feature is unclear, recognition and documentation of ductal differentiation and distinguishing it from other mimics such as acantholysis within squamous nests and entrapped eccrine ducts is essential to determine its clinical significance. We also discuss the differential diagnoses of cutaneous basaloid neoplasms with ductal differentiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaitlin Vanderbeck
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Woo Cheal Cho
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Phyu P Aung
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Doina Ivan
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Aimi T Rothrock
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Carlos A Torres-Cabala
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Victor G Prieto
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jonathan L Curry
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Priyadharsini Nagarajan
- Department of Pathology, University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA
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Cocuz IG, Cocuz ME, Repanovici A, Sabău AH, Niculescu R, Tinca AC, Vunvulea V, Budin CE, Szoke AR, Popelea MC, Moraru R, Cotoi TC, Cotoi OS. Scientific Research Directions on the Histopathology and Immunohistochemistry of the Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Scientometric Study. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58101449. [PMID: 36295609 PMCID: PMC9611311 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58101449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2022] [Revised: 10/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) is one of the most frequently occurring types of cancer in humans. Scientometric research is an innovative method for analyzing the research trends in various domains, with great implications in the field of medicine. Materials and Methods: We searched the Web of Science database with the following established query terms: “Squamous cell carcinoma”, “skin”, and “immunohistochemistry”. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 76 articles were selected. The present study aims to analyze, based on the frequency of use of keywords with scientometric algorithms and map-based distributions, the trends of the research concerning cSCCs in 2017–2022. Results: A graphical representation based on 11 scientometric maps presented the division of the keywords into seven clusters, from which seven categories of research interest were defined. The clusters represent a multidisciplinary approach to the diagnosis and treatment of cSCCs, cancer diagnostics, patient outcomes, histopathological importance, management of cSCCs, role of progression, and adequate treatment of and importance of immunohistochemistry for cSCCs. The distribution of the citations shows the importance of the available research on cSCCs by analyzing the first five most-cited articles included in our study in direct concordance with the seven defined clusters. Conclusion: The scientometric research method reveals the interest of research in the multidisciplinary approach used to obtain the best outcomes for the patient, including a targeted investigation, as well as diagnostic and treatment options. The trends in the research reveal that histopathological diagnostics and immunohistochemistry, combined with molecular techniques, are the most important tools used to establish a personalized diagnosis, thus increasing the quality of life and life expectancy for patients with cSCCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iuliu Gabriel Cocuz
- Doctoral School of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania
- Pathology Department, Mures Clinical County Hospital, 540011 Targu Mures, Romania
- Pathophysiology Department, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania
| | - Maria Elena Cocuz
- Fundamental Prophylactic and Clinical Disciplines Department, Faculty of Medicine, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500003 Brașov, Romania
- Clinical Infectious Diseases Hospital of Brasov, 500174 Brasov, Romania
- Correspondence:
| | - Angela Repanovici
- Faculty of Product Design and Environment, Transilvania University of Brasov, 500036 Brasov, Romania
| | - Adrian-Horațiu Sabău
- Pathology Department, Mures Clinical County Hospital, 540011 Targu Mures, Romania
- Pathophysiology Department, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania
| | - Raluca Niculescu
- Pathology Department, Mures Clinical County Hospital, 540011 Targu Mures, Romania
- Pathophysiology Department, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania
| | - Andreea-Cătălina Tinca
- Pathology Department, Mures Clinical County Hospital, 540011 Targu Mures, Romania
- Pathophysiology Department, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania
| | - Vlad Vunvulea
- Anatomy and Embryology Department, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania
| | - Corina Eugenia Budin
- Pathophysiology Department, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania
| | - Andreea Raluca Szoke
- Pathology Department, Mures Clinical County Hospital, 540011 Targu Mures, Romania
- Pathophysiology Department, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania
| | | | - Raluca Moraru
- Anatomy and Embryology Department, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Mures Clinical County Hospital, 540011 Targu Mures, Romania
| | - Titiana Cornelia Cotoi
- Pharmaceutical Technique Department, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania
- Pharmacy No. 2, Mures Clinical County Hospital, 540011 Targu Mures, Romania
| | - Ovidiu Simion Cotoi
- Pathology Department, Mures Clinical County Hospital, 540011 Targu Mures, Romania
- Pathophysiology Department, University of Medicine, Pharmacy, Sciences and Technology “George Emil Palade” of Targu Mures, 540142 Targu Mures, Romania
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Dellambra E, Carbone ML, Ricci F, Ricci F, Di Pietro FR, Moretta G, Verkoskaia S, Feudi E, Failla CM, Abeni D, Fania L. Merkel Cell Carcinoma. Biomedicines 2021; 9:718. [PMID: 34201709 PMCID: PMC8301416 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9070718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 06/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare and extremely aggressive neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin, with increasing incidence worldwide. This review intends to propose a comprehensive evaluation of MCC epidemiology, clinical features, pathogenetic mechanisms, diagnosis, and therapies. A section is dedicated to immunological aspects and another to the involvement of angiogenesis and angiogenic growth factors in MCC progression, proposing novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Advanced MCC tumors have been treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors with effective results. Therefore, the state of art of this immunotherapy is also examined, reporting on the most recent clinical trials in the field. We conclude by underlining the achievements in the understanding of MCC pathology and indicating the present needs for effective diagnosis and therapeutic management of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Dellambra
- Molecular and Cell Biology Laboratory, IDI-IRCCS, 00167 Rome, Italy;
| | - Maria Luigia Carbone
- Experimental Immunology Laboratory, IDI-IRCCS, 00167 Rome, Italy; (E.F.); (C.M.F.)
| | | | - Francesco Ricci
- Dermatology Department, IDI-IRCCS, 00167 Rome, Italy; (F.R.); (G.M.); (L.F.)
| | | | - Gaia Moretta
- Dermatology Department, IDI-IRCCS, 00167 Rome, Italy; (F.R.); (G.M.); (L.F.)
| | - Sofia Verkoskaia
- Oncology Department, IDI-IRCCS, 00167 Rome, Italy; (F.R.D.P.); (S.V.)
| | - Elisa Feudi
- Experimental Immunology Laboratory, IDI-IRCCS, 00167 Rome, Italy; (E.F.); (C.M.F.)
| | - Cristina M. Failla
- Experimental Immunology Laboratory, IDI-IRCCS, 00167 Rome, Italy; (E.F.); (C.M.F.)
| | - Damiano Abeni
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, IDI-IRCCS, 00167 Rome, Italy;
| | - Luca Fania
- Dermatology Department, IDI-IRCCS, 00167 Rome, Italy; (F.R.); (G.M.); (L.F.)
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