Symptom 6: Ulceration of the Lesion
Ulceration, at its core, isn’t just an external manifestation. It’s a result of underlying cellular processes gone awry. When the skin loses its fundamental protective layers due to malignant MCC cells’ activity, an open sore emerges. The lesion isn’t merely a cosmetic concern. It’s an open gateway, making the body vulnerable to external pathogens and potential infections. As the MCC cells proliferate, they might compromise the skin’s normal healing and repair mechanisms, intensifying the ulceration.
Not all skin ulcers are equal. While any open sore merits attention, the ones stemming from MCC possess unique characteristics. Beyond their association with a previously identified lesion, these ulcers might display uneven borders, a deeper cavity, or an unusual coloration. They don’t follow the typical wound healing trajectory, either resisting cure or worsening over time. Recognizing these nuanced differences can make all the difference in early diagnosis and intervention.
Letting an ulcerated lesion fester isn’t merely a passive oversight; it’s an active risk. Open sores, especially those resulting from MCC, can serve as entry points for secondary infections. Bacteria, once introduced into these ulcers, can find an easy route into the bloodstream, potentially leading to systemic infections. Moreover, persistent ulceration might also be indicative of the MCC advancing to more aggressive stages. (6)
