Rhabdomyosarcoma

Question 1

What aetiological factors are associated with rhabdomyosarcoma?

Answer 1

Mainly unknown
- minority of cases genetic
- Radiation exposure (prev treatment for Ewing’s sarcoma etc)

Question 2

What type of soft tissue is rhabdomyosarcoma a cancer of?

Answer 2

Striated muscle

Question 3

What epidemiological factors are associated with rhabdomyosarcoma?

Answer 3

• Most common STS in childhood
• Peak incidence 2-5 Yrs
• 70% diagnosed < 10 Yrs
• ~3 per million children [UK]

Question 4

What are the 3 histological subtypes of rhabdomyosarcoma?

Answer 4

• Embryonal
• Alveolar
• Pleomorphic

Question 5

What are the common Signs and Symptons associated with rhabdomyosarcoma?

Answer 5

Site dependent…
* Rapidly enlarging swelling
* Orbit: bruising, proptosis, paralysis,…
* Nasal: obstruction, epistaxis
* Abdom: pain, discomfort, constipation
* Pelvic: haematuria, dysuria

Question 6

What staging system is used for rhabdomyosarcoma?

Answer 6

International rhabdomyosarcoma Studies Staging (1-4)

1. Favourable site any size & local spread
2. Unfavourable site, but small and no spread
3. Unfavourable site and small with spread, or larger
4. Anywhere with metastic spread

Question 7

What treatment options are there for rhabdomyosarcoma?

Answer 7

• Intensive chemo (for all)
• Surgery (where possible)
• RT (post-op or when inoperable)