Rhabdomyosarcoma: Definition, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment
Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a rare and aggressive type of soft tissue cancer that originates from muscle tissue. It is most common in children and adolescents, but can occur in any age group. Rhabdomyosarcoma can develop in different areas such as the head and neck, bladder, prostate, muscles, arms and legs.
Types of Rhabdomyosarcoma
Rhabdomyosarcoma is divided into three main types according to its histological structure:
- Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma: It is the most common type and usually develops in the head and neck region in children under the age of 10.
- Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma: It is more common in adolescents and is located in deep tissues.
- Pleomorphic Rhabdomyosarcoma: It is a rare type in adults and is located in muscle tissue.
Symptoms of Rhabdomyosarcoma
The symptoms of rhabdomyosarcoma vary depending on the location and size of the tumor. Common symptoms include:
- Swelling or Mass: A painless mass or swelling is the most common symptom.
- Pain: As the tumor grows, it can press on the tumor and cause pain.
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing: Tumors in the head and neck can cause breathing and swallowing problems.
- Bladder or bowel problems: Tumors in the pelvic area can cause problems with urination and defecation.
- Weight loss and weakness: In advanced stages, general cancer symptoms may appear.
Causes and Risk Factors of Rhabdomyosarcoma
The exact cause of rhabdomyosarcoma is unknown, but certain factors may increase the risk:
- Genetics Factors: Genetic diseases such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome and Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome may increase the risk of rhabdomyosarcoma.
- Environmental Factors: Individuals who have previously received radiation therapy have a higher risk of developing rhabdomyosarcoma.
Diagnosis of Rhabdomyosarcoma
Rhabdomyosarcoma is diagnosed with physical examination, imaging methods, and biopsy:
- Physical Examination: A swelling or mass is detected.
- Imaging Methods: Ultrasound, CT, MRI, and PET scans are used to determine the spread of the tumor.
- Biopsy: A tissue sample taken from the suspicious mass is examined under a microscope to make a definitive diagnosis.
Treatment of Rhabdomyosarcoma
Treatment depends on the type of tumor, its stage, and the patient’s general condition:
- Surgical Intervention: Surgical removal of the tumor is usually the first choice.
- Radiotherapy: Used when the tumor cannot be surgically removed or to destroy any remaining cancer cells after surgery.
- Chemotherapy: Used to kill cancer cells that may have spread throughout the body.
- Targeted Therapy: Innovative treatment methods for genetic mutations are under investigation.
Prognosis of Rhabdomyosarcoma
Prognosis depends on the stage of the tumor and its response to treatment:
- Local Tumors: In cases caught at an early stage, survival rate is high.
- Metastatic Tumors: Treatment is difficult in advanced cases, but the chance of survival can be increased with chemotherapy and radiotherapy.
Conclusion
Rhabdomyosarcoma is a rare type of cancer that can affect all age groups. Early diagnosis and treatment can increase quality of life and improve prognosis. It is important to consult a health professional in case of any abnormal mass or symptom.
