Radiation Therapy in the Treatment of Head and Neck Rhabdomyosarcoma

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Rhabdomyosarcoma is a pediatric malignancy for which radiation therapy plays a significant role, along with surgery and chemotherapy. The approach to treatment varies by disease site as well as the histologic and molecular characterization of tumors. The head and neck represents a particularly complex location for radiation planning given the proximity of numerous critical structures. As a result, there is a great deal of complexity in terms of selecting radiation dose and technique that continues to evolve through large-scale trials by organizations such as the Children’s Oncology Group. This article aims to outline the management of head and neck rhabdomyosarcoma, describe the historical foundations of therapy for this disease, and provide a summary of current treatment recommendations, with a focus on radiation therapy. ABSTRACT: The use of radiation therapy is an important part of multimodality treatment for rhabdomyosarcoma. The specific doses, treatment volumes, and techniques used in radiation therapy can vary dramatically based upon a number of factors including location, tumor size, and molecular characteristics, resulting in complex decisions in treatment planning. This article reviews the principles of evaluation and management for head and neck rhabdomyosarcoma including a summary of the historical studies upon which current management is based.