A Case of Mistaken Identity: The Importance of Recognizing Red Flag Symptoms

Abstract

Rhabdomyosarcoma is the most common paediatric soft tissue sarcoma. They comprise 40% of soft tissue sarcomas in children and adolescents. The overall 5-year survival rate in childhood is 71% with a worsening prognosis during infancy. The survival rate for children diagnosed at 10–14 years is 50%. The case of a 10-year-old female is presented to highlight the importance of awareness of atypical presentations of swellings. This report presents a case where a facial swelling was originally believed to be an odontogenic-related infection, but revealed to be a rhabdomyosarcoma. CPD/Clinical Relevance: The importance of a thorough history, examination and the recognition of salient features to ensure appropriate referral and adequate treatment without delay are highlighted.