Scientists find hidden aggressive cells in some lower-risk childhood cancers

Scientists have identified hidden aggressive cancer cells in children with rhabdomyosarcoma tumors previously classified as lower risk, according to ScienceDaily Health. This finding explains why some cases of this childhood cancer become unexpectedly deadly despite lacking usual genetic warning signs.

Rhabdomyosarcoma is an aggressive cancer originating from muscle tissue and is among the most common soft tissue cancers in children under 15. In the UK, about 55 children are diagnosed with this disease annually, ScienceDaily Health reported.

Doctors typically categorize rhabdomyosarcoma based on the presence of a genetic fusion marker, which indicates a more aggressive form and lower survival rates. However, the new research reveals that tumors without this marker can still contain highly aggressive cancer cell populations.

The discovery, published in Cancer Research and conducted by scientists from institutions including the Wellcome Sanger Institute and University of Cambridge, may lead to earlier identification of dangerous tumors and more personalized treatments. This could improve survival rates while reducing unnecessary chemotherapy for some children.