Merkel Cell Carcinoma Treatment
When ctla 4 attaches to another protein called b7 on a cancer cell it stops the t cell from killing the cancer cell.
Merkel cell carcinoma treatment. Some doctors might suggest treatments other than those listed here. Because mcc is such an uncommon form of skin cancer it is best to seek treatment at an academic center with physicians who have specialized expertise in caring for people with this particular disease. Ipilimumab is a type of ctla 4 inhibitor being studied to treat advanced merkel cell carcinoma. Treatments for merkel cell carcinoma can include.
Merkel cell carcinoma is rare and dangerous but treatable especially when found at an early stage. During surgery your doctor removes the tumor along with a border of normal skin surrounding the tumor. Radiation therapy involves directing high energy beams such as x rays and protons at cancer cells. It is best to seek at least one consultation from a multi disciplinary team of physicians with significant mcc experience.
Treatment decisions depend on many issues that are highly variable between patients.