Rhabdomyosarcoma
Also known as: RMS, childhood rhabdomyosarcoma.
What is rhabdomyosarcoma?
Rhabdomyosarcoma is a type of soft tissue cancer that can affect any of the skeletal muscles, or voluntary muscles (the muscles that one can control), of the body occurring in boys more often than girls (mostly younger than 15 years of age).
Several microscopic groups exist which have importance in how the sarcoma responds to treatment.
What causes rhabdomyosarcoma?
Certain chromosomal/genetic changes seem to lead to the development of rhabdomyosarcoma, but researchers aren’t exactly sure why these mutations occur.
What are the symptoms of rhabdomyosarcoma?
The symptoms of rhabdomyosarcoma vary widely depending on its size and where it occurs, in the body. As the tumor grows, it can put pressure on surrounding body parts and lead to swelling, pain, bulging eyes, sinus pressure and other symptoms.
What are rhabdomyosarcoma care options?
Treatments include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation.
Reviewed by: Jack Wolfsdorf, MD, FAAP
This page was last updated on: June 28, 2022 02:37 PM
November 29, 2023 – Bone and joint cancers account for a fraction of cancer cases in the U.S., and their rarity and a paucity of treatment options underscore the need for experienced, multidisciplinary care and novel solutions. Nicklaus Children's Hospital's Sarcoma and Solid Tumor Program delivers both options for children with these malignancies.