Introduction.

Merkel carcinoma is a rare malignant tumor that mainly affects the Caucasian population and whose etiology is related to the Merkel cell polyomavirus. It has a poor prognosis, especially in the final stages.

Clinical case.

The case of a patient who presented a large primary facial tumor, with an advanced degree of extension, cervical lymphatic involvement and right parotid metastasis is described. She was treated surgically by excision of the primary lesion and coverage with partial skin graft, cervical lymphadenectomy, and ipsilateral parotidectomy.

Results.

A significant improvement was achieved in the patient’s quality of life and survival of at least six months.

Conclusion.

Although the optimal management of advanced Merkel carcinoma is unclear due to its poor prognosis, surgery improves the patient’s quality of life and it can play a key role in the management of Merkel carcinoma in advanced stages.

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