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Retinoblastoma

Overview

Retinoblastoma is a rare type of eye cancer that can affect young children. It affects the retina, which is at the back of the eye.

Symptoms of retinoblastoma include a white glow or reflection in the pupil, the eyes pointing in different directions and swelling around the eye.

Retinoblastoma is often linked to a change in a gene that controls the growth of the eye. Sometimes this gene is passed onto a child by their parents.

Tests for retinoblastoma include looking at the eyes with a light and having an ultrasound scan. The tests may be done under general anaesthetic.

Treatment for retinoblastoma may include a combination of laser treatment, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, cryotherapy and surgery.

If your child has retinoblastoma, you can get support from your specialist team and charities like the Childhood Eye Cancer Trust.

Page last reviewed: 01/01/1970
Next review due: 01/01/1970