Retinoblastoma is a malignant tumor of the retina that also affects the choroid and metastasizes to various organs. This disease primarily occurs in children under 5 years old.
Causes
Retinoblastoma has a genetic basis. In the presence of hereditary factors, the tumor manifests in a child by the age of 30 months. Children with congenital retinoblastoma are at risk of developing any type of cancer in the future. Rare cases of non-genetic retinoblastoma occur, but their cause is unclear. It is believed that the development of the tumor may be influenced by the advanced age of the parents, aggressive harmful industrial or environmental factors affecting their bodies.
Symptoms of Retinoblastoma
In the first stage of retinoblastoma, strabismus may develop, and during examination, the "cat's eye" symptom (white pupil) is identified. In the second stage, signs of eye inflammation are observed – photophobia, tearing, pain, increased intraocular pressure, and secondary glaucoma develops. The third stage involves the spread of retinoblastoma to soft tissues, destroying the walls of the eye socket. The fourth stage includes metastases to the brain and bone marrow, the bones of the skull and long bones, and the liver. Retinoblastoma invades the soft membrane of the brain and the optic nerve. At this stage, the patient's condition significantly worsens – headaches, nausea, intoxication, and physical weakness appear.
Diagnosis of Retinoblastoma in Israel
Based on the initial symptoms, a doctor in Israel will prescribe a complete ophthalmological examination for the patient. Ultrasound of the eye plays a crucial role in diagnosing retinoblastoma, helping to detect the tumor. To determine the extent of growth, the patient undergoes X-rays of the skull, paranasal sinuses, MRI and CT of the brain, and examinations of the liver and bones (osteoscintigraphy).
Treatment of Retinoblastoma in Israel
In Israel, several methods are practiced for treating retinoblastoma. If the tumor is up to 7 mm in size and has affected the anterior sector of the retina, cryoablation of the neoplasm is performed. The affected posterior surface with a tumor size of up to 4 mm is treated with photocoagulation. Vision loss, glaucoma, and extensive tissue damage are indications for eye removal with replacement by a prosthesis. Radiation therapy effectively combats retinoblastoma, but it has side effects (cataracts, xerosis). In the final stage of metastasis, chemotherapy is used.
Prevention
For preventive purposes, it is necessary to consult specialists for families genetically predisposed to retinoblastoma, as well as regular examinations of children in the risk group.