Retinoblastoma

Retinoblastoma is a rare eye cancer that begins in the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye that sends visual signals to the brain. It most often affects infants and very young children, typically diagnosed before age 2. In most cases, it involves one eye, though it can affect both eyes. Thanks to modern therapies, the outlook is very good, and many children can be treated without removing the eye. Symptoms Common signs include: White reflection in the pupil (leukocoria), often seen in flash photos Redness or swelling of the eye Eyes pointing in different directions (strabismus) Vision loss When to see a doctor: Seek medical advice if you notice any unusual changes in your child’s eyes or vision. Causes Retinoblastoma develops when DNA changes cause retinal cells to grow uncontrollably and form a tumor. In many cases, the cause of these DNA changes is unknown. Some children inherit a DNA change that increases risk. Inherited cases often occur earlier and may affect both eyes. Risk Factors Very young age (most common before age 2) Inherited genetic changes linked to retinoblastoma Complications Recurrence: Cancer can return in or near the eye, so close follow-up is essential. Higher risk of other cancers in inherited cases, including bone cancer, melanoma, soft-tissue sarcoma, breast cancer, lung cancer, bladder cancer, Hodgkin lymphoma and pineoblastoma. Prevention & Screening There is no proven way to prevent retinoblastoma. If it runs in your family: Consider genetic counseling and testing. Early eye screening (starting soon after birth) can detect tumors when they are small and most treatable.