Long-term outlook for a child with rhabdomyosarcoma
Prognosis greatly depends on:
- The extent of the disease.
- The size and location of the tumor.
- Presence or absence of metastasis.
- The tumor’s response to therapy.
- The age and overall health of your child.
- Your child’s tolerance of specific medications, procedures or therapies.
- New developments in treatment.
As with any cancer, prognosis and long-term survival can vary greatly from child to child. Prompt medical attention and aggressive therapy are important for the best prognosis. Continuous follow-up care is essential if your child is diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma. Side effects of radiation and chemotherapy, as well as second malignancies, can occur in survivors of rhabdomyosarcoma.