What are the types of rhabdomyosarcoma?

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

There are several types of rhabdomyosarcoma that affect different areas of the body. Embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma most commonly develops in the head, neck, genitals, or urinary organs. This is the most common type of rhabdomyosarcoma, and it usually affects very young children. Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma usually develops in the arms, legs, and abdomen, and it is most common among older children and teenagers. Another type of the cancer, called anaplastic rhabdomyosarcoma, rarely affects children, but it can develop in adults.

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Musculoskeletal Cancers

Cancers of the musculoskeletal system affects our bodys muscles, bones, tendons, ligaments, joints and cartilage. For unknown reasons, cells that help us form our muscles, bones and connective tissues become damaged, leading to several cancers of this system, which helps us move our bodies. Many of these diseases are more common in children than adults. Rhabdomyosarcoma (pronounced RAB-doh-MY-oh-sar-KOH-muh) causes cancerous tumors to develop in the head, neck, bladder and reproductive organs. The Ewing Family of Tumors (EFTs) cause rare cancers of the bone and soft tissues found in our arms, legs, head, neck and trunk. The most common type of bone cancer, osteosarcoma weakens the connective tissues and minerals that give our bones strength. Most musculoskeletal cancers are rare but can be difficult to treat. Early detection is key to improving your outcome. See your doctor if you or your child have a lump that grows or does not disappear, find blood in your urine or have bone pain.

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