Merkel Cell Carcinoma News

health2 years ago•4 min saved

The Rare and Aggressive Cancer that Claimed Jimmy Buffett's Life

Singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett, who recently passed away, had Merkel cell carcinoma, a rare form of skin cancer. Merkel cell carcinoma is diagnosed in fewer than 3,000 people in the US each year and is believed to be linked to UV light exposure, a weakened immune system, and the Merkel cell polyomavirus. Early detection is crucial, and treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy. Prevention measures include regular skin examinations, boosting the immune system, and protecting oneself from UV rays through sunscreen, protective clothing, and staying in the shade.

via CNN|

#health #jimmy-buffett #merkel-cell-carcinoma

health2 years ago•3 min saved

Understanding Merkel Cell Carcinoma: Insights from Jimmy Buffett's Tragic Battle

Singer Jimmy Buffett passed away after a four-year battle with Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), a rare and aggressive form of skin cancer. MCC is much less common than other types of skin cancer and is characterized by fast-growing, painless tumors on sun-exposed skin. It has a high risk of recurrence and spreading within a few years of diagnosis. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy. Prevention measures include regular skin checks, minimizing UV exposure, and practicing sun safety.

via ABC News|

#health #jimmy-buffett #merkel-cell-carcinoma

health2 years ago•1 min saved

"Rare and Aggressive Skin Cancer Strikes Jimmy Buffett, Linked to Merkel"

Merkel cell carcinoma, a rare and aggressive form of skin cancer, is often harder to detect than melanoma and can spread quickly to the lymph nodes. Unlike other types of skin cancer, there are no reliable markers or indicators for Merkel cell carcinoma. It typically appears as a small reddish or purple bump under the skin and is usually diagnosed through a biopsy. It tends to affect older individuals with sun exposure or weakened immune systems. Treatments for melanoma have shown effectiveness against Merkel cell carcinoma, but the cancer can reappear even after seemingly successful treatment. Early detection and prompt medical attention are crucial in managing this lesser-known form of skin cancer.

via The Atlanta Journal Constitution|

#aggressive-cancer #detection #health

health2 years ago•1 min saved

"Rare and Aggressive Skin Cancer Strikes Jimmy Buffett, Linked to Merkel"

Merkel cell carcinoma, a rare and aggressive form of skin cancer, is often harder to detect than melanoma and can spread quickly to the lymph nodes. Unlike other types of skin cancer, there are no reliable markers or indicators for Merkel cell carcinoma. It typically appears as a small reddish or purple bump under the skin and is usually diagnosed through a biopsy. It tends to affect older individuals with sun exposure or weakened immune systems. Treatments for melanoma have shown effectiveness against Merkel cell carcinoma, but the cancer can reappear even after seemingly successful treatment. Early detection and prompt medical attention are crucial in managing this lesser-known form of skin cancer.

via The Atlanta Journal Constitution|

#aggressive-cancer #detection #health