Retinoblastoma - methods of diagnosis and treatment.
Retinoblastoma is an eye cancer - the disease forms on the retina. When nerve cells in the retina are genetically mutated, retinoblastoma develops. Due to mutation, cells continue to grow abnormally, multiply; Cells that divide uncontrollably accumulate and form a tumor.
It is possible for retinoblastoma cells to invade deep into the eye and damage nearby structures. When metastasized, the cancer is expected to spread to the brain and spine. It is not always possible to find the exact cause of a genetic mutation.
This diagnosis mainly affects children, it is rare in adults. Cancer can spread to one or both eyes.
Prevention
The way to prevent retinoblastoma is unknown.
Some types are caused by a change in DNA, which is considered a family history. If any family member has or had this diagnosis, the doctor must know. At this time, the doctor will offer you a genetic analysis - with this research method, it is possible to find the DNA variation that increases the risk of eye cancer.
If your child has a genetic predisposition to retinoblastoma, that is, the risk of developing the disease is high, the pediatrician will make a plan to manage this risk. For example, in such cases, an eye examination is recommended shortly after birth. With screening, cancer is diagnosed at a much earlier stage, and at this time, the chance of curing the patient is high.
If you do not yet have a child and are planning to become a parent, and you have a family history of retinoblastoma (that is, this diagnosis runs in the family), be sure to notify your doctor. With genetic testing, it is possible to determine whether there is a risk of passing on the DNA variation to the child and what methods can be used to manage this risk.
Diagnosis and treatment
Often, the diagnosis begins with an eye examination. Imaging studies determine the size of the cancer.
Treatment is provided for:
- Chemotherapy;
- Cryotherapy;
- Laser therapy;
- Radiotherapy;
- Removal of the eye (surgical intervention is required only in certain situations).
Which treatment method is effective for a child depends on various factors, in particular, the size and location of the cancer, whether the disease has metastasized or not, whether it has spread to the other eye, and what is the patient's general state of health.
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/retinoblastoma/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351013
