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A Rare Cancer, A Powerful Tool: What the New Guidelines Mean for Merkel Cell Carcinoma Patients

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Merkel Cell Carcinoma (MCC) is a rare cancer type, but support for patients is growing.

For those facing an MCC diagnosis, access to the latest tools and research can make a difference.

This means that Signatera™, Natera’s personalized ctDNA test, is now part of the standard of care for MCC patients. This addition reflects real-world data published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, showing how ctDNA testing helps doctors detect molecular recurrence and track disease progression earlier.

What is ctDNA?

Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) refers to tiny fragments of DNA that are shed into the bloodstream. By analyzing these fragments, doctors can gather insights into a patient’s cancer at the molecular level. Unlike traditional imaging scans, which detect physical tumor growth, ctDNA testing can identify molecular fragments of tumor DNA in the blood before they appear on scans.

What is Signatera™ Testing?

Signatera™ is a personalized ctDNA test designed to detect minimal residual disease (MRD) after treatment and monitor for cancer recurrence over time. Unlike standard liquid biopsy tests that look for general cancer markers, Signatera™ is custom-built for each patient, using their tumor’s unique signature. This makes it a highly sensitive tool for identifying recurrence earlier, helping oncologists make more informed treatment decisions.

What This Means for Merkel Cell Patients

MCC is an aggressive skin cancer with a high risk of recurrence. While it is considered rare, its impact is significant.

  • More personalized monitoring – ctDNA testing helps identify molecular recurrence before it appears on scans.
  • More informed treatment decisions – Knowing if the cancer is responding to treatment helps oncologists tailor care.
  • More peace of mind – Tracking ctDNA levels over time can help patients and doctors stay ahead of the disease.

At Natera, we believe that every cancer patient—no matter how common or rare their diagnosis—deserves access to innovative tools that help them stay in control of their health. That’s why we invest in research and work to bring cutting-edge technology, like Signatera™, to the patients who need it most.

We’re proud to support the Merkel Cell Carcinoma community alongside the larger cancer communities we serve—like colorectal, breast, and lung cancer. Because when it comes to improving cancer care, no patient should be left behind.

If you are a Merkel Cell Cancer survivor, you can speak with your healthcare team about ctDNA and your care.