Alveolar rhabdomyosarcomas are a type of rhabdomyosarcoma and account for 20-40% of all rhabdomyosarcomas 1,2.
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Epidemiology
Unlike embryonal rhabdomyosarcomas, which are more common, these tumours occur in slightly older individuals, typically 10-25 years of age 1.
Pathology
Location
Although these tumours can be found essentially anywhere, they are more frequently situated in the deep compartments of the extremities 1,2.
Genetics
Specific genetic abnormalities in alveolar rhabdomyosarcomas have been identified. They include t(2;13) and t(1;13) chromosomal translocations resulting in PAX3-FKHR and PAX7-FKHR gene fusions 2.
Prognosis
Compared to embryonal and pleomorphic rhabdomyosarcomas, this subtype is associated with the poorest prognosis 1.
Radiographic features
The features are non-specific (see radiographic features in the parent article: rhabdomyosarcoma), although in general alveolar rhabdomyosarcomas tend to have multiple areas of necrosis 1.
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