Merkel Cell Carcinoma(MCC)-a blood test to predict spread


                      In the 50 % of patients who produce antibodies to the MCC polyomavirus

oncoprotein at diagnosis,there is now a blood test to measure these antibodies upon

follow up visits .

                     Since about 40 % of  MCC's recur ,this blood test can be an early  way

to detect Metastasis (spreading) in otherwise asypmtomatic patients who have

these antibodies-long before these "mets" show up on diagnostic  testing.