|
Retinoblastoma Causes and Risks:
The cause of most cases of retinoblastoma has recently been determined to be the absence of a tumor suppresser gene. Retinoblastoma and other associated malignancies tend to run in families.
One or both eyes may be affected. A visible whiteness in the pupil may be present. Blindness can occur in the affected eye, and the eyes may appear crossed. The tumor can spread to the eye socket, and to the brain, by means of the optic nerve. The risk factors other than a family history are not known. This is a rare tumor.
Prevention:
Genetic counseling can help predict the risk of retinoblastoma if a family history is present.
Symptoms:
Signs and Tests:
Treatment:
Treatment options depend upon the size and location of the tumor . Small tumors may be treated by laser surgery . Radiation and chemotherapy may be indicated if the tumor has spread beyond the eye. The eye may be removed if the tumor does not respond to therapy.
Prognosis:
Relative to many cancers, the overall prognosis (probable outcome) is good with a death rate of about 18%.
Complications:
Spread of the tumor to the brain or other locations can occur.
Call Your Healthcare Provider:
Call your health care provider if signs or symptoms of retinoblastoma are present.
This is an illustration of a cross-section and frontal view of the eye.
|
