Alice’s cancer returns at the location of the primary tumour

In November 2017 a routine MRI scan showed slight activity on the leftover tumour at her primary site. Tests were explored to decide if this was active rhabdomyosarcoma cells or damage from radiation. After numerous tests a biopsy revealed active alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma cells. This was after Alice had enjoyed over a year off treatment. Usually rhabdomyosarcoma tends to return within the first 18 months after diagnosis but this was confirmed after nearly three years since diagnosis. Treatment options on relapse are limited and rarely result in a cure. Alice’s cancer has not spread any further and she has embarked on chemotherapy again involving a combination of three different drugs. The chemotherapy regime will involve six cycles over a period of 21 days. Alice has also been accepted for a procedure in Amsterdam known as AMORE. In order to cure Alice the tumour must be removed – this has not previously been done as it is in an unfavourable location. The procedure in Amsterdam involves the removal of the tumour, brachytherapy radiation and reconstruction of her face.