Rhabdomyosarcoma is a very rare cancer that starts in your skeletal muscles. Although it is commonly seen in children, it sometimes occurs in adults too. As this cancer can occur in any part of your body, it does not show serious symptoms in the beginning. This is why you need to be a little more careful with your child’s health in order to detect any suspicion early.
What is rhabdomyosarcoma?
Rhabdomyosarcoma is a cancer that starts in your skeletal muscles and is rare. It normally begins in the muscle-forming cells but can also develop in the areas where there are no skeletal muscles present. These areas can be your head and neck, reproductive organs, or even arms. While its victims are mostly children, it can sometimes also occur in younger adults.
Symptoms of Rhabdomyosarcoma
The symptoms of rhabdomyosarcoma can vary depending on where the tumor has developed in your body.
Growth of a painless lump and symptoms
Persistent pain in the affected area
Headaches or nasal blockage if the tumor is in your head or neck
Blood in the urine or changes in the bowel if it affects the bladder
Abdominal pain or vomiting if the tumor affects the abdomen
Weakness or limited movements if the tumor presses against the nerves
Types of rhabdomyosarcoma
Doctors may classify rhabdomyosarcoma into different categories based on how the cancer cells look under the microscope.
Embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma is the most commonly found in children under the age of 10.
Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma is more aggressive and can be commonly found in older children and teenagers, and may occur in their legs, chest, or abdomen.
Pleomorphic rhabdomyosarcoma is a rare type that can mainly affect adults and may start in their arms or legs.
Diagnosis and treatment options
Doctors usually begin their diagnosis by examining your child’s physical condition. For this, they may use tests like an MRI or CT scan to look for any unusual changes in the body. If they find anything suspicious, then they might perform a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis. Only after examining the child’s condition more closely can doctors proceed with treatment. Doctors can consider the tumor’s type, cancer stage, and how much it has spread. They usually tend to move ahead with surgery, as their primary approach is to remove the tumor as much as possible. After this, they can move ahead with chemotherapy and radiation therapy to stop the spread and destroy the remaining cancer cells.
Hope begins with action
Diagnosis of rhabdomyosarcoma can feel a little overwhelming in the beginning, but timely diagnosis can play a crucial role. By recognizing your child’s symptoms early, you can take charge of their health and consult doctors before it’s too late. With the right guidance, your child can recover quickly and regain hope for their future.