Retinal cancer

=Retinal Cancer = Retinal cancer is a rare form of cancer that originates in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. This article provides a comprehensive overview of retinal cancer, including its types, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.

Types of Retinal Cancer

Retinal cancer can be classified into several types, with the most common being:

• Retinoblastoma: A rare type of eye cancer that typically affects young children. It is the most common form of retinal cancer in children.
• Uveal Melanoma: Although primarily affecting the uvea, it can extend to the retina and is more common in adults.

Causes

The exact cause of retinal cancer is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute to its development:

• Genetic mutations: In the case of retinoblastoma, mutations in the RB1 gene are a known cause.
• Family history: A family history of retinoblastoma increases the risk of developing the disease.
• Environmental factors: Exposure to certain chemicals or radiation may increase the risk, although this is less well-established.

Symptoms

Symptoms of retinal cancer can vary depending on the type and stage of the disease, but common signs include:

• Leukocoria: A white reflection from the retina, often noticed in photographs.
• Strabismus: Misalignment of the eyes, commonly known as "crossed eyes."
• Vision problems: Blurred vision or loss of vision in one or both eyes.
• Eye redness or swelling.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing retinal cancer involves several steps:

• Eye examination: An ophthalmologist will conduct a thorough examination of the eye.
• Imaging tests: Ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans may be used to visualize the tumor.
• Genetic testing: Particularly for retinoblastoma, to identify mutations in the RB1 gene.

Treatment

Treatment options for retinal cancer depend on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the patient's age and overall health. Common treatments include:

• Surgery: Removal of the tumor or, in severe cases, the entire eye (enucleation).
• Radiation therapy: Targeted radiation to destroy cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: Systemic or localized chemotherapy to kill cancer cells.
• Laser therapy: Used to destroy small tumors or blood vessels feeding the tumor.

Prognosis

The prognosis for retinal cancer varies:

• Retinoblastoma: With early detection and treatment, the prognosis is generally good, with high survival rates.
• Uveal Melanoma: Prognosis depends on the size and location of the tumor and whether it has spread.

Prevention

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent retinal cancer, early detection and genetic counseling for families with a history of retinoblastoma can help manage risk.

See Also

• Eye cancer
• Ocular oncology
• Genetic counseling
• American Cancer Society. "Retinoblastoma." Accessed October 2023.
• National Cancer Institute. "Uveal Melanoma Treatment (PDQ ) Patient Version." Accessed October 2023.

NIH genetic and rare disease info

• NIH info on Retinal cancer

Retinal cancer is a rare disease.