Diagnosis
Since rhabdomyosarcomas can develop in many parts of the body, they can be difficult to diagnose. If your child has symptoms, the doctor will conduct a physical exam and ask questions about your child's medical history. If the doctor still suspects rhabdomyosarcoma, he or she may recommend any of the following procedures:
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Computed Tomography (CT) Scan
A computed tomography (CT) scan uses X-rays to produce an image of the body. A special dye may be injected into the veins and your child may be asked to drink a special fluid in order to make the internal organs stand out. A CT scan reveals the presence of tumors and whether or not the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
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Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Scan
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses radio waves and a strong magnet to create clear and detailed images of body parts. Radio waves are absorbed by the body and then released in a certain pattern, which is translated by a computer in order to show “slices” of the body. The doctor may recommend an MRI scan to examine tumors in the head, neck, limbs, and pelvis. An MRI can give a clear picture of the tumor and surrounding tissues.
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Biopsy
A biopsy is the only way to be certain if a tumor is malignant. The doctor will remove a tissue sample from the tumor and have it examined under a microscope. Doctors most commonly perform surgical biopsies for rhabdomyosarcomas and remove a piece of the tumor with a surgical scalpel. However, needle biopsies may be used in some cases.
Chest X-Ray
X-rays use electromagnetic radiation to produce images of the inside of your child's body. The doctor may order x-rays at times to evaluate the lungs or bones.
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Ultrasound
Ultrasounds bounce sound waves off of the internal organs in order to create echoes that form a picture. Doctors may use ultrasounds to detect and monitor rhabdomyosarcomas in the pelvis.
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Bone Marrow Aspiration & Biopsy
In this test, the doctor will use a thin needle to extract a sample of bone marrow tissue from the hip bone and send it to a lab to be examined under a microscope. Doctors commonly perform this test after diagnosis to determine if the cancer has invaded the bone marrow.
