Diseases and Conditions
Merkel cell carcinoma
Cancer that spreads to other parts of the body
Overview
Symptoms
Causes
Risk factors
Complications
Prevention
Diagnosis
Treatment
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Cancer that spreads to other parts of the body
Even with treatment, Merkel cell carcinoma commonly spreads (metastasizes) beyond the skin. Merkel cell carcinoma tends to travel first to nearby lymph nodes. Later it may spread to your brain, bones, liver or lungs, where it can interfere with the functioning of these organs. Cancer that has metastasized is more difficult to treat and can be fatal.