A cancer that begins in the muscles.

Rhabdomyosarcoma is a cancer that begins in the muscles. It most commonly forms in the head and neck, bladder, vagina, uterus, testes, arms or legs. It most often affects children and young adults.

Symptoms depend on where the cancer starts. In the head and neck area, rhabdomyosarcoma might cause headaches and nose bleeds. In the bladder, symptoms might include blood in the urine and trouble with urinating. In an arm or leg, symptoms might include pain and swelling.

Treatments may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.