Conditions
Childhood Rhabdomyosarcoma
What Is Childhood Rhabdomyosarcoma?
Rhabdomyosarcoma is a form of cancer that begins in the muscle
tissue. Cells that resemble the rhabdomyoblasts (the cells that
develop into voluntary or skeletal muscles of the body) of a
fetus (baby still in the womb) begin to grow and divide abnormally.
This cancer begins in the soft tissues in a type of muscle called
striated muscle and can occur anywhere in the body.
Eighty-five percent of all cases of rhabdomyosarcoma occur
in children and young adults under the age of 25. It very rarely
occurs in older adults. It is also the most common type of sarcoma
to be found in the soft tissues of children.
Types of Rhabdomyosarcoma
There are three types of rhabdomyosarcoma:
Following are some common symptoms associated with rhabdomyosarcoma.
Symptoms will depend upon where the cancer is located.
These symptoms may be indicative of cancer or other medical conditions.
If your child is experiencing any of these symptoms, he/she should
see their doctor.
If symptoms are present, your child's doctor will perform a complete
physical exam and may prescribe additional tests to find the cause
of the symptoms. Tests may include:
If cancer is detected, your child's doctor will prescribe additional
tests to identify the type and stage of the disease.
Your child's doctor will work with you and your child to develop
the best treatment plan. This plan will be developed based upon
the type and stage of the disease,
as well as your child's age and general health. Treatment options
include:
