Merkel cell


Merkel cell – Other Names


Merkel-Ranvier cells

Tactile epithelial cells


What is the function of Merkel cells?


Mechanoreceptors

Essential for light touch sensation

Merkel cells abundant in highly sensitive skin like that of the fingertips in humans


Merkel cells are found in which layer of skin?


Found in the stratum basale


What is ‘Merkel cell-neurite complex’?


Merkel nerve endings – also called a Merkel cell-neurite complex.

When associated with sensory nerve endings, they are known as Merkel nerve endings


What is Merkel cell carcinoma?

Merkel cells may become malignant and form a Merkel cell carcinoma.

Aggressive type of cancer.


Merkel cell carcinoma


Also known as


  1. Cutaneous APUDoma
  2. Primary neuroendocrine carcinoma of the skin
  3. Primary small cell carcinoma of the skin
  4. Trabecular carcinoma of the skin

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