Retinoblastoma

Retinoblastoma is a cancer of the eye retina, which is the tissue located in the back of the eye. This cancer may present itself in one or both eyes. It is most common in children under the age of five.

Causes of retinoblastoma

Approximately 40% of childhood retinoblastoma is hereditarily passed from the parents. Yet for the remaining cases, the cause is unknown.

Symptoms of retinoblastoma

Unexplained redness, soreness or swelling of the eye
Change in the color of the iris
The appearance of one “red eye” in photographs (which is a normal effect), while the other eye appears white or black
Blurred vision
Lazy eye (when one of the eyes does not look in the same direction as the other eye)

Diagnosis of retinoblastoma

Ultrasound of the eyes to detect the tumor
Examination under anesthesia for children, as it is important to get a precise diagnosis
MRI of the head to detect any intracranial spread of the tumor

Treatment of retinoblastoma at KHCC

Treatment may include surgical procedures, and in many cases the eyes may be saved. Thermotherapy, cryotherapy and radiation therapy are also used.

A team comprised of an oncologist, an ophthalmologist and a radiation oncologist discuss complex cases in detail with international experts. The most important goal of treatment is saving the life of the patient followed by saving vision and appearance. In some cases, it is difficult to achieve these goals without chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Surgery is usually a last resort when other therapies are ineffective.