Retinoblastoma (Reh-tin-oh-blast-oma) is a cancer of one or both eyes that accounts for approximately 3% of cancers found in children. Retinoblastoma arises from immature retinal cells and can affect one (unilateral) or both (bilateral) eyes. The retinoblastoma tumor(s) originate in the retina, the light sensitive layer of the eye which enables the eye to see. It typically strikes from the time a child is an infant to 5 years old. The majority of patients have no family history of retinoblastoma.
There are approximately 350 new diagnosed cases per year in the United States. Retinoblastoma affects one in every 15,000 to 30,000 live babies that are born in the United States. The key to curing retinoblastoma is early detection.
If you notice your child has any of these symptoms it is important to contact your pediatrician or ophthalmologist immediately to have their eyes examined and pupils dilated.
For more information about retinoblastoma treatment options please contact: Dr. David H. Abramson, Chief, Ophthalmic Oncology Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Center, New York, NY, (212) 639-7232.
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