Merkel cell carcinoma in the oral cavity: A case presentation and review of the literature

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a very aggressive small cell tumour of neuro-endocrine origin, usually arising on sun-exposed parts of the skin. Only four cases of intra-oral MCC excluding the lips are reported with a maximum survival of 26 months. A new case with a MCC on the right glossopharyngeal fold is presented. Because of the aggressive behaviour and the fact that wide excision with 3 cm resection margins as recommended for skin lesions is anatomically not attainable, a MCC in the oral cavity has a very poor prognosis.