Does Merkel cell carcinoma cause new lump or swelling?

Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare skin cancer that may appear as a firm, painless, skin-coloured, red, or purple lump. It can enlarge over a short period and may occur on sun-exposed skin, although appearance and location vary. Swelling can also reflect nearby lymph nodes or a different skin or soft-tissue problem.

Look at the area in good light and note its size, colour, texture, tenderness, and changes over time. Do not squeeze, pierce, or repeatedly rub it, as this can irritate the skin and make changes harder to judge.

Arrange a prompt appointment for a new, growing, firm, or unexplained lump, particularly if it persists or changes in colour. A clinician may examine the skin and nearby lymph nodes and decide whether a biopsy or other test is needed.

Take a dated photograph only if it helps you track change without delaying care. Mention immune-suppressing medicines, previous skin cancers, and any recent injury or infection around the area.

Seek urgent medical advice if swelling rapidly expands, becomes very painful, bleeds heavily, develops spreading redness with fever, or affects breathing, swallowing, vision, or movement. These signs can need prompt treatment for several possible causes.

Ask what features make the lump concerning, whether a biopsy is needed, how quickly results are expected, and which changes should lead you to return sooner.