Orbital rhabdomyosarcoma in childhood.

Rhabdomyosarcoma is a diagnostic and therapeutic problem in the management of pediatric tumors, representing the most common malignant orbital tumor of childhood. In this discussion of the diagnosis of rhabdomyosarcoma, the role of CT is detailed through the case reports and the radiographs presented. CT can accurately define the anatomic location of the orbital mass, the involvement of various intraorbital structures, and the extension of the pathologic process into the periorbital regions such as sinuses, nasal cavity, and intracranial compartment. Thin-needle aspiration biopsies can be done under CT guidance without complications as well as follow-up monitoring of tumor regression following therapy.