Rhabdomyosarcoma

Rhabdomyosarcoma is a malignancy of embryonic mesenchyme; third most common soft tissue sarcoma (after MFH and liposarcoma). Most common in adolescents. Accounts for 15% of pediatric solid tumors and 50% of pediatric soft tissue sarcomas. Embryonal/alveolar in children/young adults; pleomorphic in older adults. Male > female. Head/neck/extremities/genitourinary.

Common Symptoms

Lymphadenopathy; muscle tear; muscle contracture; severe pain; proptosis; nasal obstruction; bloody vaginal discharge; olfactory disturbance; clasp-knife sign; sensory disturbance

Causes

Composed of rhabdomyoblasts at varying differentiation; cause unknown but genetics/chromosomal abnormalities/gene fusions likely.

Treatment

Supportive care; rehabilitation; surgery

Prevention

Highly malignant, rapid growth, easy metastasis; no prevention; early detection/treatment. Chemotherapy (vincristine, actinomycin D, cyclophosphamide) for 2 years after resection; add radiotherapy for unresectable/widespread disease; autologous BMT for advanced. Orbital/vaginal RMS has better prognosis; others recur easily. Regular follow-up.

Recommended Department

It is recommended to visit the oncological surgery department; before the visit you may first book an appointment and connect with experts through this platform.

Warm reminder: The above information is provided for health education reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek care at a regular hospital in time.