Fetal rhabdomyoma

Fetal Rhabdomyoma is a rare type of tumor that primarily occurs in infants and young children. It is a benign neoplasm that originates from the skeletal muscle tissue.

Overview

Fetal rhabdomyoma is a subtype of rhabdomyoma, which is the most common primary cardiac tumor in children. However, the fetal subtype is less common than the adult and juvenile subtypes. The tumor is typically located in the head and neck region, particularly in the auricle and oral cavity, but can also occur in other parts of the body.

Symptoms

The symptoms of fetal rhabdomyoma can vary depending on the location and size of the tumor. Common symptoms include a visible mass or swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing, and pain or discomfort. In some cases, the tumor may be asymptomatic and discovered incidentally during a routine physical examination or imaging study.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of fetal rhabdomyoma is typically confirmed through a combination of clinical examination, imaging studies, and histopathological analysis. Ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to visualize the tumor and assess its size, location, and relationship to surrounding structures. A biopsy of the tumor is usually required to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

The primary treatment for fetal rhabdomyoma is surgical removal of the tumor. In some cases, if the tumor is small and asymptomatic, a watchful waiting approach may be adopted. The prognosis for individuals with fetal rhabdomyoma is generally good, as the tumor is benign and does not spread to other parts of the body. However, recurrence after surgery can occur, and long-term follow-up is necessary.

See also

• Rhabdomyoma
• Benign tumor
• Pediatric oncology

NIH genetic and rare disease info

• NIH info on Fetal rhabdomyoma

Fetal rhabdomyoma is a rare disease.