How is rhabdomyosarcoma diagnosed?
In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, diagnostic procedures for rhabdomyosarcoma may include the following methods: • Biopsy of the tumor – when a sample of tissue is removed from the tumor and examined under a microscope. • Blood and urine tests. • Multiple imaging studies: • Computed tomography scan (also called a CT or CAT scan) – a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a combination of X-rays and computer technology to produce cross-sectional images (often called slices), both horizontally and vertically, of the body. A CT scan shows detailed images of any part of the body, including the bones, muscles, fat and organs. CT scans are more detailed than general X-rays. • Magnetic resonance imaging – a diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of large magnets, radio frequencies and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body. • X-ray – a diagnostic test that uses invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce imag
