About Retinoblastoma

What is Retinoblastoma?

Retinoblastoma is a rare form of eye cancer that affects the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. It is most commonly found in children under the age of five, and is caused by a genetic mutation. Treatment typically involves surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

What are the symptoms of Retinoblastoma?

The most common symptom of retinoblastoma is a white pupil (leukocoria) that is visible in a photograph taken with a flash. Other symptoms may include:

- Eye Redness or swelling

- Eye pain

- Poor vision

- Crossed eyes (strabismus)

- A change in the color of the iris

- A mass or lump in the eye

- Abnormal eye movements

- Excessive tearing

- A change in the size of the pupil

What are the causes of Retinoblastoma?

Retinoblastoma is a rare form of eye cancer that affects children. It is caused by a mutation in the RB1 gene, which is responsible for controlling cell growth and division. The mutation can be inherited from a parent or can occur spontaneously. Other risk factors include having a family history of retinoblastoma, being born prematurely, and having a weakened immune system.

What are the treatments for Retinoblastoma?

The treatments for Retinoblastoma depend on the size and location of the tumor, as well as the age of the patient. Treatment options may include:

1. Laser therapy: A laser is used to destroy the tumor.

2. Cryotherapy: Extreme cold is used to freeze and destroy the tumor.

3. Radiation therapy: High-energy X-rays are used to destroy the tumor.

4. Chemotherapy: Drugs are used to kill the cancer cells.

5. Surgery: The tumor may be surgically removed.

6. Intra-arterial chemotherapy: Chemotherapy drugs are injected directly into the artery that supplies blood to the tumor.

7. Intra-vitreal chemotherapy: Chemotherapy drugs are injected directly into the eye.

8. Proton beam therapy:

What are the risk factors for Retinoblastoma?

1. Genetic predisposition: Retinoblastoma is most commonly caused by a genetic mutation that is passed down from a parent to a child.

2. Family history: Children with a family history of retinoblastoma are at an increased risk of developing the disease.

3. Age: Retinoblastoma is most commonly diagnosed in children under the age of 5.

4. Race: Retinoblastoma is more common in certain racial groups, such as African Americans and Hispanics.

5. Premature birth: Children born prematurely are at an increased risk of developing retinoblastoma.

Is there a cure/medications for Retinoblastoma?

Yes, there are treatments available for retinoblastoma. Treatment options may include laser therapy, cryotherapy, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and/or surgery. Medications used to treat retinoblastoma include vincristine, carboplatin, etoposide, and topotecan.