2. MCC Stage II: Beyond the Surface
When MCC progresses to Stage 2, the tumor remains localized but has grown beyond the initial 2 cm size. Its growth pattern remains aggressive, and there’s an added complexity. The cancer has begun its sinister spread to nearby structures beneath the skin or to the closest lymph nodes, although it hasn’t affected distant organs yet.
The skin over the tumor might start exhibiting more changes, sometimes becoming ulcerated or broken. The texture differs too; it might become more rubbery or harder compared to the earlier stage. An intriguing observation here is the unpredictable nature of its spread, not always linear in progression.
Lymph nodes near the tumor might become swollen or palpable. However, unlike other conditions where swollen lymph nodes can be painful, in MCC, they’re often painless. This stage is a testament to the sneaky, insidious nature of this cancer, quietly spreading without causing overt discomfort.
The proximity of the affected lymph nodes to the tumor varies. Sometimes they’re quite close, and other times they can be a little farther away. As the cancer permeates deeper structures and lymph nodes, the urgency for comprehensive treatment grows. (2)
