Nasopharyngeal Rhabdomyosarcoma Masquerading as Peritonsillar Abscess and Bronchopneumonia: An Unforeseen Diagnosis

International Journal of Otolaryngology and Head &amp Neck Surgery 2026 Open access

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Authors: Eshita Bansal, Pawan Singhal, Balkrishan Jhajhadia, Anchal Agrawal, Taniya Joshi, Saurav Praveen Kamat
DOI: 10.4236/ijohns.2026.152010
Cited by: 0
References: 8

Abstract

Rhabdomyosarcoma is an aggressive malignant tumor and is the most common soft tissue sarcoma found in children, frequently arising from the nose, nasopharynx and paranasal sinuses. Here we report the case of a 3-year-old female who was misdiagnosed by multiple hospitals as peritonsillar abscess in view of the acute nature of the illness. Following tracheostomy due to the obstructive tendency of the lesion, the patient underwent imaging and biopsy which ultimately led to the diagnosis of a large nasopharyngeal rhabdomyosarcoma. The family was counselled regarding the prognosis and treatment modalities and the child subsequently underwent chemotherapy for the same.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Sarcoma Diagnosis and Treatment Head and Neck Surgical Oncology Head and Neck Cancer Studies

Publication details

Journal / source
International Journal of Otolaryngology and Head &amp Neck Surgery
Volume
15
Issue
02
Pages
101–107
Publication date
1 January 2026
Language
EN