rhabdomyosarcoma

Last reviewed 02/2023

Rhabdomyosarcoma is a rare, highly malignant tumour that originates from striated muscle. It occurs most frequently in the first two years of life.

Rhabdomyosarcoma can be sub-classified into various types:

• embryonal type - most common; often arises in the head or neck region, or in relation to genitalia in childhood
• botryoid type - grapelike; occurs in female GU tract.
• alveolar type - often arises in the limbs
• pleomorphic type - classically in adults

Presentation is as a swelling which may be around the orbit, nasopharynx, bladder, vagina - with or without haemorrhagic discharge - uterus, and occasionally in the limbs.