Merkel cell carcinoma: extended lymphadenectomy and reconstruction with biosynthetic prosthesis.

Introduction: Merkel cell carcinomas (MCC) is an aggressive neuroendocrine carcinoma originating from the Merkel cell in the dermo-epidermal junction. Only 10% of MCC occur on the skin of the trunk.

Case report: We report a case of Merkel's abdominal carcinomas treated with extensive inguinal lymphadenectomy and reconstruction of the abdominal wall and inguinal canal using prosthesis GORE® BIO-A® .

Discussion: Immunohistochemical analysis by tumor-specific markers is crucial for diagnosis and permits differentiation from other tumors of the skin. MCC is an aggressive tumor with poor prognosis.

Conclusions: For primary tumors without indications of the presence of organ metastases complete surgical excision is the gold standard. Gore BIO-A is a biosynthetic prosthesis with manageable structure that allows it to be positioned and shaped according to needs, its strength provides for excellent support for the reconstruction of the inguinal canal wall.