Dr. Scott Diede, M.D., Ph.D., a former St. Baldrick’s Scholar, shares insights on Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma (ARMS), including its symptoms, available treatments, and the latest research developments aimed at improving outcomes for children with this aggressive cancer.
What is Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma (ARMS)?
Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma is a rare and aggressive type of soft tissue cancer that typically develops in adolescents and young adults. It often starts in the torso, arms, or legs. ARMS is one of two main types of pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma, the other being Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma (ERMS).
- Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma (ERMS): More common in children under 10. Found in areas such as the head, neck, urinary tract, and reproductive organs.
- Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma (ARMS): More aggressive, typically developing in teens or young adults, and primarily found in the limbs or torso.
Rhabdomyosarcoma is the most common childhood soft tissue cancer, with around 350 new cases diagnosed annually in the United States.
Symptoms of the Disease
The symptoms of ARMS can vary depending on where the cancer is located. Common signs include:
- A lump or swelling on the torso, arm, or leg that grows larger and doesn’t go away. Sometimes the lump may be painful.
- Difficulty urinating or passing stool.
- Blood in the urine.
Recognizing these symptoms early can lead to faster diagnosis and treatment, improving outcomes for children.
Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma Treatment Options
Treatment for ARMS depends on factors such as the tumor’s size, location, stage, and whether it has spread. Doctors categorize the cancer as low-risk, intermediate-risk, or high-risk to determine the most effective treatment plan. Common treatment options include:
- Surgery: Surgeons may attempt to remove the tumor entirely, though this is often challenging. Chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy may be used beforehand to shrink the tumor.
- Chemotherapy: All children with rhabdomyosarcoma receive chemotherapy. The type and dosage depend on the cancer’s risk level.
- Radiation Therapy: Radiation is often combined with chemotherapy and surgery to target and destroy remaining cancer cells.
Ongoing Research in Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma
Over the past few decades, research has improved treatment options for rhabdomyosarcoma, but challenges remain—especially for children with aggressive Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma. Current research priorities include:
- Finding new targeted therapies to improve survival rates and reduce side effects.
- Identifying biomarkers to better diagnose ARMS and determine risk levels.
- Developing more effective treatments for high-risk or recurrent cases.
Help Support Research for Better Treatment
Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma research is crucial to improving outcomes for children facing this challenging disease. Your support can help fund groundbreaking studies and innovative treatments that give kids with ARMS a better chance at long, healthy lives.
Donate now and help support research into better treatments for kids with cancer.
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Learn about one of our recent Research Outcomes dealing with Alveolar Rhabdomyosarcoma:
Research Outcomes: Fighting Cancer & Helping Survivors
