What is Rhabdomyosarcoma?
Rhabdomyosarcoma is a type of soft tissue cancer that develops in cells that normally grow into skeletal muscle. Because muscle tissue exists throughout the body, rhabdomyosarcoma can appear almost anywhere, including the head and neck, around the eyes, bladder, limbs or trunk.
It is the most common soft tissue sarcoma in children and can occur at any age, but is most frequently diagnosed in younger children.
Signs & Symptoms
Symptoms depend entirely on where the tumour develops and may include:
- a lump or swelling that keeps growing
- pain or discomfort in the affected area
- headaches or eye changes (if near the head or orbit)
- difficulty passing urine or stool (if in the pelvic area)
- limping or restricted movement
- bleeding from the nose, vagina or rectum (less common)
These symptoms can also be caused by many non-cancer childhood conditions and do not necessarily mean cancer.
How is it Diagnosed?
If rhabdomyosarcoma is suspected, your child will be referred to a specialist cancer centre. Tests may include:
- ultrasound, MRI or CT scans – to locate the tumour and assess its size
- biopsy – the key test to confirm the diagnosis and identify the subtype
- chest imaging – to check if the cancer has spread
- bone marrow tests – in some cases
- blood tests – to support planning and monitor overall health
These investigations help determine the stage of the tumour and guide treatment.
Treatment
Treatment usually involves chemotherapy, surgery and/or radiotherapy. The exact combination depends on the tumour’s location, size, subtype and whether it has spread.
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Chemotherapy
Most children begin with chemotherapy to shrink the tumour. This makes surgery safer and more effective. Chemotherapy is given in cycles through a central line. -
Surgery
Surgery aims to remove as much of the tumour as possible.
– If the tumour is in an area where full removal is safe, surgeons may remove it completely.
– If it is in a sensitive area (such as near the eye or bladder), partial removal or no surgery may be recommended at first. -
Radiotherapy
Often used when surgery cannot remove all of the tumour, or if surgery is not suitable. Radiotherapy is carefully targeted to protect healthy tissue. -
High-Dose Therapy and Stem Cell Transplant
Used in some high-risk cases or if the cancer returns.
Supportive Care
Your child may receive:
- medicines for sickness, pain or appetite changes
- antibiotics or antifungals
- physiotherapy to support strength and movement
- emotional and psychological support
- nutritional advice
- help with school and daily routines
Supportive care helps maintain wellbeing throughout treatment.
Monitoring Response
Scans, blood tests and clinical assessments are used to track how well treatment is working and to adjust the plan if needed.
Outlook & Support
Many children with rhabdomyosarcoma respond well to treatment, especially when the tumour is diagnosed early and has not spread. Outcomes depend on the tumour’s type, location and response to therapy.
During treatment your child will be cared for by a specialist children’s cancer team. Help is available with managing side effects, school, emotional wellbeing and practical concerns.
Lennox Children’s Cancer Fund will support your whole family from diagnosis, through treatment and beyond.
Key Facts
- Common Age: Most common in younger children
- Survival: Around 65–75% for localised tumours
- How common? The most common soft tissue sarcoma in children, but still rare
