Abstract
We report a case of Merkel cell carcinoma with proven brain metastasis. The patient was a 73-year-old man who presented with a one-month history of a rapidly enlarging scalp mass. The mass was widely resected in December 1998, and histological examination revealed Merkel cell carcinoma. In July 1999, a computed tornography (CT) scan of the head demonstrated brain metastasis. Radiotherapy to the brain was instituted. In addition, a CT scan of the abdomen showed lymphnode matastasis in July 2000. He was started on chemotherapy, which consisted of a regimen of cyclophosphamide, adriamycin, and vincristine. He responded well to radiation and chemotherapy and is alive and neurologically intact three years after brain metastasis. To our knowledge, all previous patients except one with metastatic Merkel cell carcinoma to the brain died within 1 year of the metastasis. We review the treatment options in patients with brain metastasis. [Skin Cancer (Japan) 2003; 18: 184-188]
