Merkel cell carcinoma metastatic to the head of the pancreas.

Context: Merkel cell carcinoma is an aggressive cutaneous tumor without clearly defined treatment and high propensity for metastasis.

Case Report: This case describes a sixty four year old presenting with obstructive jaundice approximately two years after having a Merkel cell carcinoma resected from his finger. He underwent a successful pancreaticoduodenectomy with pathology confirming metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma. This report reviews the history, presentation, and current treatment recommendations for Merkel cell carcinoma.

Conclusions: We propose that resection of metastases from Merkel cell carcinoma may confer a survival advantage and should be strongly considered, particularly if isolated.