Can rhabdomyosarcoma spread throughout the body?

Rhabdomyosarcoma can spread to other parts of the body in later stages of the disease. Tumors can form almost anywhere in the body and, if they are left untreated, they continue to grow. Eventually, cells can break off from the tumor and spread to other parts of the body. This process is called metastasis. Sometimes, the cancer only spreads to nearby tissue. In other cases, rhabdomyosarcoma may metastasize to distant parts of the body and cause serious problems. Because rhabdomyosarcoma is more likely to spread if it is left untreated, it is important to talk to your doctor right away if you notice that your child has any symptoms.