Rhabdomyosarcoma is a rare type of cancer that originates in muscle tissue. Muscles work to provide and support movement in the body. Rhabdomyosarcoma is a condition in which cancer cells originating from this muscle tissue grow and multiply rapidly.
Rhabdomyosarcoma usually occurs in childhood, but in rare cases it can also occur in adults. Most cases of childhood rhabdomyosarcoma are diagnosed in children younger than five years of age. There are two main types: early-onset (embryonal) rhabdomyosarcoma and late-onset (alveolar) rhabdomyosarcoma. Both types may have different characteristics and require different treatment approaches.
Rhabdomyosarcoma can usually present with the following symptoms
A mass or swelling: The most common symptom is the presence of a noticeable mass or swelling in the body. These masses are usually painless, but depending on their size and location, they may cause restricted movement or other symptoms.
Pain: Pain may occur with the progression of rhabdomyosarcoma. The pain is usually caused by the growing tumor or cancer cells pressing on nearby tissues or nerves.
Fatigue and weakness: Fatigue and weakness can occur due to the lack of energy and metabolic changes associated with cancer.
Rhabdomyosarcoma is usually diagnosed through a series of tests and imaging studies, followed by a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancer cells. Treatment may require a multidisciplinary approach, often involving surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve treatment success and survival rate, so early diagnosis is important.
