Rhabdomyosarcoma

Definition

Rhabdomyosarcoma is a rare and aggressive type of soft tissue sarcoma that develops in skeletal muscle cells. It primarily affects children but can also occur in adults.

Characteristics

Common sites include the head and neck, urinary and reproductive organs, and limbs. Symptoms depend on the tumor’s location and may include a lump or swelling, pain, bleeding, or difficulty with normal body functions like urination or movement.

Diagnosis and Prognosis

Diagnosis involves imaging tests such as MRI or CT scans, biopsy, and molecular testing to identify tumor subtype. Prognosis depends on the tumor’s location, size, stage, and the patient’s age. Early-stage tumors have better outcomes, especially in children.

Treatment

Treatment typically includes a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Multimodal therapy improves survival rates, especially when complete tumor removal is possible.

Last Revised: 12 May , 2025