Rhabdomyosarcoma Support Programs and Services

Soft tissue sarcoma is a malignant tumor that develops in the body’s soft connective tissues, including muscles, nerves, tendons, fat, and walls of blood and lymphatic vessels. Soft tissue sarcomas can be divided into two main types:

• Rabdomiosarkoma
• Non-rhabdomyosarcomatous soft tissue sarcoma.

Soft tissue sarcomas account for about 7% of all childhood cancers. Rhabdomyosarcoma is more common in young children. Certain congenital pathological conditions may increase the risk of soft tissue sarcomas. The risk is also higher for children exposed to ionizing radiation. Treatment of soft tissue sarcoma usually involves surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy.

Our specialists understand the various symptoms and possible side effects of treatment, including the social and psychological aspects of treatment and recovery. Many children were treated for sarcoma at Tel Aviv Medical Clinic. It may be helpful for you to talk to other patients or families who have had similar experiences. Please feel free to ask your child care team to arrange a conversation for you with some former patients and their families. We also offer a wide range of support programs that help children, family members and caregivers cope with several life problems during and after treatment.

What help can I get? 

Since cancer can affect children in different ways, we have a team of specialists who deal with the psychological and social needs of your child. These specialists offer assistance to our patients and their family members when dealing with a cancer diagnosis, supporting our therapeutic teams.

Our psychological care team includes:

• Social workers;
• Specialists in child life;
• Teachers;
• Priests;
• Managers and support staff;
• Nurses;
• Physiotherapists and therapists;
• Nutrition experts;
• Psychiatrists;
• Specialists of integrative medicine;
• Patient Service Coordinators;
• Patient representatives.

In addition to our work with other groups in the clinic, we also enlist the support of external agencies, programs and organizations to meet the needs of our families.