A study on Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) in the United States found that most cases are caused by Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) and ambient ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure. The research evaluated over 38,000 MCC cases from 2001 to 2019 and identified contributions of modifiable risk factors like immunosuppressive conditions and UVR exposure. Results showed that a small percentage of MCC cases were due to conditions like HIV and organ transplants. Most cases were linked to MCPyV and UVR exposure, with higher incidence in non-Hispanic White individuals. The study suggests further research on UVR mutational signature and MCPyV prevalence based on race, ethnicity, and immune status.
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UV Radiation and MCPyV Account for Most Merkel Cell Cases
