Retinoblastoma is a rare type of eye cancer that usually affects young children, often under the age of five. Despite its rarity, early diagnosis and appropriate intervention are crucial in preserving vision and preventing the spread of cancer to other parts of the body. In this article, Zorayr Manukyan will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for retinoblastoma.
Zorayr Manukyan Lists The Causes, Symptoms, And Treatment For Retinoblastoma
Causes of Retinoblastoma
Retinoblastoma occurs when cells within the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye, mutate and develop uncontrollably. According to Zorayr Manukyan, most cases of retinoblastoma are sporadic, meaning they are not inherited from a parent. However, around 45% of cases are hereditary, attributed to a mutated gene (RB1 gene) that, if passed from a parent, can increase the likelihood of developing this cancer.
It is essential to note that having the mutated gene does not necessarily mean one will develop retinoblastoma, but it increases the risk. The hereditary form of retinoblastoma often affects both eyes, whereas the sporadic form usually targets only one eye. Prenatal exposure to radiation can also contribute to the risk of retinoblastoma, but this is extremely uncommon.
Symptoms of Retinoblastoma
The early detection of retinoblastoma can be critical in preserving vision and ensuring the best possible outcomes for a child. Some common symptoms to watch out for include:
1. Leukocoria: A white reflection, often described as a “cat’s eye” reflex, can be seen in the pupil when light is shone into the eye, replacing what is typically a red reflection. This symptom is often noticeable in photographs taken with flash.
2. Strabismus: A misaligned eye or eyes could be a sign of retinoblastoma. This may present as one eye pointing straight ahead while the other eye may turn inward, outward, upward, or downward.
3. Vision Problems: Children might experience blurred vision, double vision, or even decreased vision due to the tumor’s growth.
4. Eye Inflammation: The eye may appear swollen and red, resembling the symptoms of an eye infection.
5. Differently sized or colored pupils: The affected eye may have an irregularly sized or discolored pupil.
If you notice any of these symptoms in your child, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional without delay.
Treatment for Retinoblastoma
Treatment for retinoblastoma depends on multiple factors, such as the size, location, and extent of the tumor, the child’s overall health, and whether cancer has spread beyond the eye.
1. Chemotherapy: This is often the first line of treatment utilized to shrink the tumor. This can be administered intravenously (systemic) or directly into the blood vessels supplying the tumor (intra-arterial).
2. Radiation therapy: External beam radiation or plaque radiotherapy (small radioactive disks placed directly on the tumor) can be used to target cancer cells while minimizing harm to healthy cells.
3. Laser therapy: Photocoagulation and thermotherapy utilize lasers to shrink the tumor and cut off the blood supply to the cancer cells.
- Cryotherapy: According to Zorayr Manukyan, by freezing the affected areas, cancer cells can be destroyed, helping to preserve more of the healthy eye tissue.
Zorayr Manukyan’s Concluding Thoughts
Retinoblastoma is a serious eye condition that can lead to vision loss and overall health complications. As treatments continue to improve and become more widely available, the chances of successful treatment increase dramatically. Although the causes and symptoms of retinoblastoma are not fully understood, the key to preventing it is early diagnosis and treatment — for both parents and children affected by this devastating disease. It is important, as per Zorayr Manukyan, for healthcare providers to be aware of retinoblastoma, have resources available that can help with diagnosis, and be trained in best practices for early detection. With appropriate medical assistance, people impacted by retinoblastoma can have every opportunity to lead healthy, happy lives. Ultimately, understanding the cause and symptoms of retinoblastoma is essential in order to reduce its prevalence in all parts of the world.