Merkel cell carcinoma: does tumor size or depth of invasion correlate with recurrence, metastasis, or patient survival?

Objective: The objective of this retrospective study and literature review was to compare the clinical and histologic criteria including tumor size and depth of invasion with outcomes in patients with Merkel cell carcinoma.

Methods: The state cancer registry provided patients (n = 46) diagnosed with Merkel cell carcinoma from 1992 through 2002. Pathology slides were reviewed by the author for tumor size, depth of invasion, Clark level, and margin status.