What is Rhabdomyosarcoma?
Rhabdomyosarcoma is a high-grade tumor (having the ability to spread fastly) that arises from the striated skeletal muscle cells, which failed to differentiate fully in its specific form. It is generally, considered as the disease of childhood, as most cases were seen under 15 years of age.
What is Botryoid Rhabdomyosarcoma?
Botryoid rhabdomyosarcoma is a subtype of embryonic rhabdomyosarcoma that developed in the lining of the nasopharynx (nasal part of the throat), common bile duct, bladder, and vagina. It is the most common soft tissue sarcoma in children which usually affects the genital tract of the female. The female genital tract is located within the pelvis and consists of the vulva (outer genital part), vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. The site of the genital tract tumor in women depends on the age of the patient, in infants and children it usually affects the vagina, in the reproductive age group (15-49 years old) it affects the cervix, and in the postmenopausal group (over 49 years old) it affects the uterus. Botryoid rhabdomyosarcoma looked like a bunch of grapes, so we called it botryoid Greek for a bunch of grapes.
Disease Epidemiology
Botryoid Rhabdomyosarcoma is a childhood malignancy. The mean age for the development of Botryoid Rhabdomyosarcoma is below 8 years. The onset of symptoms mostly occurs at the age of 3. Few cases of botryoid rhabdomyosarcoma are also reported in older age females. It is a fatal disease with a 5-year survival rate that varies from 10-35%.
Disease Etiology (Causes)
There is no well-known cause; however certain genetic mutations are responsible for the development of botryoid rhabdomyosarcoma.
Signs and Symptoms
The signs and symptoms depend upon the site of origination of the tumor. The patient may present with the following signs and symptoms with vaginal botryoid rhabdomyosarcoma. These are
- Abnormal bleeding from the vagina (bleeding in female infants, children, women during menopause, and in women of reproductive age, bleeding from the vagina, except for menstrual bleeding.
- Yellowish colored polyps like mass
Diagnosis and Treatment
Following diagnostic tests and procedures can be used to make a diagnosis. These are:
- Radiological and imaging techniques like CT-scan, PET-scan, MRI, and X-ray
- Tumor Biopsy
- Immunohistochemistry.
Treatment Treatment can be curative and symptomatic. It depends on the stage of cancer. Treatments which are usually applied are:-
- Surgery removal of the tumor or cancerous growth
- Radiation Therapy
- Chemotherapy
What Support can we Give for Botryoid Rhabdomyosarcoma?
Botryoid Rhabdomyosarcoma is a rare cancer, meaning it is not as well known as other forms of cancer. Without a Ribbon is an Australian organisation that provides support for individuals who suffer from rare cancers. So, we provide a designated platform for Warriors to obtain information specific to their Rare Cancer. We also provide annual opportunities for our Warriors to meet and learn from each other. If you suffer from rare cancer such as Botryoid Rhabdomyosarcoma we can help and support you through your journey thanks to the generous donations we receive. Click the link below to sign up and become a Warrior today!
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Without a Ribbon is a charity that works hard to aid those who suffer from rare cancers. You can help our cause in a variety of ways:
