Neck rhabdomyosarcoma

Abstract

Introduction: Tumors that originate from mesenchymal cells are called sarcomas. These cells, in the embryonic stage, give rise to skeletal and smooth muscle, adipose tissue, bone and cartilage. The term rhabdomyosarcoma refers to mesenchymal cells with the potential to differentiate into skeletal muscle cells, and to establish in sites where they would not normally be found. These head and neck neoplasms are very rare in the adult population.

Objective: To report an interesting case with neck rhabdomyosarcoma.

Clinical report: The case of a 22 years- old male patient, with continuous growth of the right cervical mass of 6 months of evolution ias reported here. This patient  underwent previous surgical resection in another hospital by general practitioners, with probable diagnosis of lipoma. The results of the intraoperative biopsy of the lesion were compatible with rhabdomyosarcoma and it was decided to suspend the surgical procedure, referring the patient to a specialist.

Conclusions: Although the prevalence of neck rhabdomyosarcoma is low in the adult population, its presence must be considered in all patients with a tumor mass in the neck, and a detailed physical examination must be performed. Likewise, the exceresis of the tumor and its histological analysis must be carried out to reach the precise diagnosis.