When choosing a treatment plan, the first important criteria to ascertain is whether the cancer is localized within the eye (intralocular) or has spread to other parts of the body (extralocular).
Intravenous treatment with one or more drugs (chemotherapy) is often used for treatment of both large and small tumors.
Radiation therapy is often used for treatment of large tumors when preservation of sight is possible.
Yes, there is, and it is recommended if you have a family history of retinoblastoma. One lab that performs genetic testing is Retinoblastoma Solutions,
The treatment depends on how far advanced the tumor is. If the tumor is in the advanced stages and there is little hope of regaining vision the most effective treatment is an enucleation, the removal of the eye. Enucleation obviously is.
Retinoblastoma is caused by mutations in the RB1 gene, which leads to uncontrolled cell growth in the retina. While this condition does not directly cause biochemical imbalances, the abnormal growth of cells can disrupt the normal biochemical reactions within the affected tissue. Additionally, the treatment for retinoblastoma, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, can sometimes affect the biochemical balance in the body.
Yes, retinoblastoma can be life-threatening, particularly if not diagnosed and treated promptly. This eye cancer primarily affects young children and can spread beyond the eye to other parts of the body, which increases the risk of mortality. Early detection and treatment are crucial for improving outcomes and survival rates. With appropriate care, many children with retinoblastoma can survive and maintain good vision.
Individuals with intraocular retinoblastoma who do not have trilateral retinoblastoma usually have a good survival rate with a 90% chance of disease-free survival for five years.
The average life span of a person with retinoblastoma can vary significantly based on factors such as the stage at diagnosis, treatment effectiveness, and whether the cancer has spread. With early detection and appropriate treatment, many children can survive and lead healthy lives, often achieving a life expectancy similar to the general population. However, those with more advanced disease or complications may face a reduced life expectancy. Regular follow-up care and monitoring are crucial for long-term health outcomes.
Approximately 40% of people with retinoblastoma have an inherited form of the condition and approximately 60% have a sporadic (not inherited) form.
Yes it can be if not treated quickly. My daughter has retinoblastoma, but it was treated when she was 6 months old...she is now 6 and is in remission. :)
Retinoblastoma is not preventable. In addition, most other types of eye tumors are thought to be partly genetic as of the early 2000s.
The tumor of embryonic retinal cells is called retinoblastoma. It is a rare type of eye cancer that typically affects young children. It develops in the retina, the light-sensing tissue at the back of the eye.