Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) begins in the soft tissues of the body. These soft tissues include skeletal muscles (muscles attached to bones that help us move), tendons, and connective tissues. RMS is a type of sarcoma, which is a cancer that arises from these types of tissues.
Common Locations for Rhabdomyosarcoma
While RMS can develop almost anywhere in the body, some locations are more common than others:
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Head and Neck: This is one of the most frequent sites, often occurring near the eye, in the nasal sinuses, or in the throat.
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Genitourinary System: RMS can occur in the bladder, prostate, or testicles in males, and in the vagina, uterus, or bladder in females.
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Arms and Legs: The limbs are another common site for RMS development.
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Trunk: The torso, including the chest and abdomen, can also be affected.
It's important to note that RMS can occur in other, less common locations. The specific location of the tumor plays a role in determining the treatment plan.
Types of Rhabdomyosarcoma and Their Typical Locations
Different subtypes of rhabdomyosarcoma have a predisposition for certain locations:
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Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma: This is the most common type, especially in younger children. It frequently occurs in the head and neck region and the genitourinary tract.
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Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma: This type is more common in older children and adolescents. It often occurs in the arms, legs, or trunk.
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Pleomorphic Rhabdomyosarcoma: This is a rare subtype typically found in adults. It usually occurs in the muscles of the extremities.
In summary, rhabdomyosarcoma starts in the soft tissues of the body, and can present in various locations such as the head and neck, genitourinary system, limbs, and trunk, dependent on the type and age of the patient.
