Journal: The Journal of dermatology
This publication presents the first comprehensive, evidence-based clinical guidelines for Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) in Japan, developed under the Japanese Dermatological Association.
MCC is a rare but highly malignant and immunogenic skin cancer with rising incidence and a high risk of recurrence and metastasis.
The guidelines were formulated through a systematic review of the literature using the GRADE approach and align with the Minds Clinical Practice Guideline standards.
They address four key clinical questions:
- Primary tumor resection margins
- Sentinel lymph node biopsy
- Postoperative radiotherapy
- Chemotherapy for advanced disease
These guidelines aim to provide standardized, region-specific recommendations to improve treatment decisions not only in Japan but also in the broader East Asian context, where reliance on Western guidelines has been common.