Embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma of the head and neck in an adult

Auris Nasus Larynx. 2012 Jun;39(3):326-8. doi: 10.1016/j.anl.2011.07.012. Epub 2011 Sep 1.

Abstract

Objective: This report describes an exceedingly rare case of adult embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma arising in the head and neck, which was initially diagnosed as a primary unknown cancer.

Method: The patient underwent a radical neck dissection with the total excision of the tumor, which was diagnosed as embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma.

Result: The patient received intensive adjuvant chemotherapy, and is still alive with no signs of recurrence or metastasis.

Conclusion: This case report demonstrates not only the rarity of this neoplasm but the importance of the differential diagnosis for planning the therapeutic strategy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Chemotherapy, Adjuvant
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Head and Neck Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Neck Dissection
  • Rhabdomyosarcoma, Embryonal / pathology*
  • Rhabdomyosarcoma, Embryonal / therapy*