Due to the highly aggressive nature of Merkel cell carcinoma, accurate and timely diagnosis is essential to ensure optimal management. Although our understanding of the biology of the disease has advanced significantly in recent years, a clinical conundrum still exists regarding the ideal therapeutic strategy for each patient. 

In this podcast, our multidisciplinary panel discuss: 

• the pathology of Merkel cell carcinoma 
• differential diagnoses 
• clinical presentation 
• the role of surgery and its importance in diagnosis, staging and salvage 
• how radiotherapy is used in the definitive and adjuvant settings 
• the role of systemic therapy 
• emerging therapies and the importance of clinical trials. 

In addition, the panel reviews two case studies to put learnings into practice. 

This podcast is suitable for Medical Oncologists, Surgeons, Dermatologists, GPs, Nurses and other healthcare professionals. 

Please note that this podcast was accurate at the time of recording (March 2021) but may not reflect the rapidly evolving treatment landscape and approvals in Australia. 

SPEAKERS: 

• Dr Robert Rawson - Pathologist, Melanoma Institute Australia and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital 
• Dr Kerwin Shannon - Surgical Oncologist and Head and Neck Surgeon, Melanoma Institute Australia and Chris O'Brien Lifehouse 
• Prof Angela Hong - Radiation Oncologist, Melanoma Institute Australia |Clinical Professor, The University of Sydney 
• Dr Ines Silva - Medical Oncologist and Researcher, Melanoma Institute Australia | Fellow, Westmead Hospital