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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Suggest Prognosis Of Merkel Cell Carcinoma, Rheumatoid Arthritis With Weakened Autoimmune System

Thanks.......I have a 90 year old aunt. She was just diagnosed with merkel cell carcinoma. She had a red growth removed from her right temple and it came back with basal cell and merkel cell underlying. She has severe Rhuematoid Arthritis and has been taking methotrexate and prednisone for years. Apparently these medications, along with her age, have deteriorated her autoimmune system. With a weakened autoimmune system the merkel cell stepped in. Her doctors have told me because of her age and health conditions, she would be a good candidate for surgery etc. She has excellent doctors and I trust them. Obviously this is a terminal condition and I'm wondering what to expect so I can keep her comfortable. I'm also wondering how much time could we still have her her.                                                            
Mon, 4 Jan 2016
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  User's Response
HI
Well come to HCM
I really appreciate your concern, in geriatric age group with age of 90 years and having history of malignancy and collagen disease nothing much can be done surgery is just out of the question, with the medicine same result can be seen, surgery may cause complication in post operative phase, nursing care is the best for her, hope this information helps.
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Suggest Prognosis Of Merkel Cell Carcinoma, Rheumatoid Arthritis With Weakened Autoimmune System

HI Well come to HCM I really appreciate your concern, in geriatric age group with age of 90 years and having history of malignancy and collagen disease nothing much can be done surgery is just out of the question, with the medicine same result can be seen, surgery may cause complication in post operative phase, nursing care is the best for her, hope this information helps.