Rhabdomyosarcoma is a type of soft tissue sarcoma that originates from embryonic cells called rhabdomyoblasts, which are precursors to skeletal muscle cells. It is the most common type of soft tissue sarcoma in children, but it can also occur in adults, though less frequently.

 

Rhabdomyosarcoma primarily affects muscles in various parts of the body, including the head and neck, the genitourinary tract, and the arms and legs. There are several subtypes of rhabdomyosarcoma, each with distinct characteristics:

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1. Embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma: This is the most common subtype and primarily affects children. It often occurs in the head and neck region, urinary or reproductive organs, or the muscles surrounding the eye.

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2. Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma: This subtype is less common but tends to occur in older children and adolescents. It commonly affects the arms, legs, chest, or abdomen. Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma is often more aggressive than embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma.

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3. Pleomorphic rhabdomyosarcoma: This subtype is predominantly seen in adults but is rare overall. It can occur in various locations and is characterised by pleomorphic cells that differ from the embryonal or alveolar subtypes.