retinoblastoma

Retinoblastoma is a serious but often treatable cancer that usually appears in early childhood. It develops from immature cells in the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. The name gives a clue to its source: "retino-" points to the retina, and "-blastoma" refers to a tumor that grows from very early cells.

Most cases are diagnosed before age five, often appearing as a white glow in the pupil when light shines on it—a clinical sign sometimes mistaken for a "cat's eye" reflection in photos. This occurs because the tumor reflects light differently than healthy retinal tissue. Retinoblastoma can be intraocular, meaning it stays within the eye, or extraocular, meaning the cancer has spread beyond the eye to other parts of the body.

Many cases are linked to a change in the RB1 gene. In some children, this change is inherited from a parent, which can raise the risk in both eyes and may matter for other family members as well. In other children, the change happens for the first time and is not inherited.

Treatment depends on the size and place of the tumor. Doctors may use chemotherapy, laser treatment, freezing treatment, radiation, or, in severe cases, surgery to remove the eye. Early diagnosis is very important because it improves the chance of saving the child's life and, when possible, preserving vision.