Summary: Retinoblastoma is the most common type of eye cancer in children, typically affecting those under the age of five. This eye cancer in children makes up for 2% of all cancer cases diagnosed under the age of 15. In fact, most children who are diagnosed with this disease are younger than 5 years old.
Early detection of eye cancer is crucial, as timely treatment can save both life and vision. Understanding eye cancer in child symptoms, diagnosis methods, and available treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, laser therapy, cryotherapy, and surgery, helps parents make informed decisions. With prompt intervention, most cases of eye cancer in kids are highly treatable.
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Key Takeaways:
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What is Retinoblastoma?
Retinoblastoma is a type of eye cancer in children that develops when the soft lining of the retina is damaged. Like most cancers, this disease develops due to cell mutation that occurs in cells in the retina. If left undiagnosed, it can spread to other parts of the body.
If your child has retinoblastoma, or you’re suspecting that he/she might have it, it’s essential not to hit the panic button. If caught early, the condition can be cured, and in many cases, vision can be salvaged.
Eye Cancer Symptoms in Children
If your child exhibits the following signs, they may indicate eye cancer in child symptoms and should be evaluated immediately:
- A white spot in the pupil (more noticeable when light is shone directly into the eye)
- Eyes pointing in different directions (strabismus)
- Redness in the eyes
- Swelling in or around the eyes
These symptoms are among the most common early indicators of eye cancer in kids and should prompt an urgent consultation with an eye specialist.
Diagnosis of Retinoblastoma
An eye specialist can diagnose eye cancer in children through a detailed evaluation. Depending on the symptoms, the doctor may:
- Conduct a thorough eye examination under anaesthesia
- Order imaging tests, such as an MRI, to identify the cause of symptoms
- Refer you to an ocular oncology specialist for further assessment
- An oncologist will then review the MRI results and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.
Treatment of Eye Cancer in Children
There are several treatment options for eye cancer in kids, chosen based on the size, stage, and spread of the tumour. Your child’s doctor may suggest one or more of the following:
- Chemotherapy
A specialised drug treatment that helps shrink tumours and slow cancer growth. In successful cases, it can even eliminate cancer cells.
- Radiation Therapy
In this process, high-energy beams are used to destroy tumour cells. There are two types of radiation therapy, as follows:
- Internal radiation (brachytherapy) – a small device is placed near the tumour
- External radiation – beams are directed at the tumour from outside the body
- Laser Therapy
A precise laser is used to destroy blood vessels supplying the tumour, cutting off its oxygen and nutrient supply.
- Cryotherapy
Extreme cold is used to freeze and destroy tumour cells. Liquid nitrogen is applied directly to the tumour to kill the abnormal cells.
- Surgery
If cancer has spread extensively or cannot be controlled through other treatments, surgery may be recommended. This can involve removing the affected eye (enucleation). After healing, the doctor will fit your child with an artificial eye.
Types of Retinoblastoma in Children
Retinoblastoma can present in different forms, depending on whether one or both eyes are affected and whether the condition is inherited.
- Unilateral Retinoblastoma
This form affects only one eye and is the most common presentation. It is usually diagnosed slightly later than bilateral cases. In many children, unilateral retinoblastoma occurs due to a non-inherited genetic mutation.
- Bilateral Retinoblastoma
Bilateral retinoblastoma affects both eyes and is often diagnosed at a younger age. This form is more commonly associated with inherited genetic mutations. Children with bilateral disease require careful long-term monitoring, as they may have a higher risk of developing other cancers later in life.
Genetic Factors and Family Risk
Retinoblastoma is strongly linked to mutations in the RB1 gene, which controls cell growth in the retina. These mutations can be:
- Inherited, passed from a parent to the child
- Sporadic, occurring randomly during early development
Children with inherited retinoblastoma may develop tumours in both eyes and may pass the condition on to future generations. Because of this, genetic testing and counselling are often recommended for families where retinoblastoma has been diagnosed.
Parents with a family history of eye cancer in children should inform their eye specialist early, even if symptoms are not yet visible.
How Retinoblastoma Progresses If Untreated?
Without timely treatment, retinoblastoma can progress beyond the eye and become life-threatening. The tumour may spread to:
- The optic nerve
- Surrounding eye tissues
- The brain
- Bones or bone marrow
As the cancer spreads, treatment becomes more complex and survival rates decrease. This highlights why early detection of eye cancer in children is critical for both survival and vision preservation.
Importance of Early Screening and Parental Awareness
Parents play a key role in identifying early eye cancer symptoms in children. Many cases are first noticed at home rather than during routine checkups.
Warning signs parents should never ignore include:
- A white reflection in photographs
- Persistent eye redness without infection
- Eyes that do not align properly
- Swelling around the eye or eyelid
Routine pediatric eye exams, especially during infancy and early childhood, significantly increase the chance of early diagnosis.
Advanced Diagnostic Tools Used in Retinoblastoma
In addition to MRI scans and clinical examinations, doctors may use advanced diagnostic tools to assess tumour size, location, and spread.
These may include:
- Fundus photography to document tumour appearance
- Ultrasound imaging to evaluate internal eye structures
- Genetic testing to identify inherited mutations
- Bone marrow tests if cancer spread is suspected
These investigations help create a precise and personalised treatment plan.
Modern Treatment Approaches and Eye-Saving Therapies
Advances in medical technology have significantly improved outcomes for children with eye cancer. Today, doctors aim not only to save life but also to preserve vision whenever possible.
Eye-preserving treatments may include:
- Targeted chemotherapy delivered directly to the eye
- Localised laser or freezing treatments
- Combination therapies to minimise side effects
These approaches reduce damage to healthy tissue and improve long-term visual outcomes.
Life After Treatment: Recovery and Follow-Up Care
Children treated for retinoblastoma require long-term follow-up, even after successful treatment. Regular monitoring helps detect:
- Tumour recurrence
- New tumour development
- Vision changes
- Treatment-related side effects
Follow-up schedules may include frequent eye exams, imaging tests, and paediatric oncology reviews during early years.
Visual Outcomes and Quality of Life
Visual outcomes depend on:
- Tumour size and location
- Whether one or both eyes are affected
- Speed of diagnosis
- Type of treatment used
Many children treated early retain partial or functional vision. With rehabilitation, visual aids, and support, children can lead normal, active lives. For children who undergo eye removal, prosthetic eyes are carefully designed to match appearance and support healthy facial development.
Emotional and Psychological Support for Families
A diagnosis of eye cancer in kids can be emotionally overwhelming for families. Parents may experience anxiety, guilt, or fear regarding their child’s future.
Support strategies include:
- Counselling services
- Parent support groups
- Clear communication with medical teams
- Educational guidance on care and recovery
Emotional well-being is an essential part of comprehensive cancer care.
Long-Term Outlook and Survival Rates
With early diagnosis and modern treatment, survival rates for retinoblastoma are extremely high. In many developed healthcare settings, survival exceeds 95 percent.
The long-term outlook improves significantly when:
- Cancer is detected early
- Treatment begins promptly
- Follow-up care is consistent
This reinforces the importance of awareness and timely medical attention.
Role of Specialised Eye Cancer Centres
Managing eye cancer in children requires a multidisciplinary approach involving:
- Paediatric ophthalmologists
- Ocular oncologists
- Medical oncologists
- Radiologists
- Genetic counsellors
Specialised centres ensure coordinated care, accurate diagnosis, and access to advanced treatment options.
Conclusion
Retinoblastoma may be rare, but early awareness and timely action make all the difference. If you notice any unusual changes in your child’s eyes, or have concerns about eye cancer in children, consult an eye specialist immediately. Early diagnosis not only improves treatment outcomes but can also preserve vision and protect your child’s long-term health.
Why Choose Centre for Sight?
Centre for Sight is the leading eye-care hospital in India, with multiple clinics located across the country. We work with the most well-known doctors in the field who can not only help with quick diagnostics and effective treatments and customize your treatment plan but also help your child rehabilitate to ocular changes.
FAQs
Is eye cancer in children curable?
Yes. Most cases of eye cancer in children, especially retinoblastoma, are highly curable when detected early. With timely treatment, many children recover fully and can often retain functional vision.
What age does eye cancer start?
Eye cancer in children, particularly retinoblastoma, usually develops before the age of five. In many cases, symptoms appear during infancy, making early screening and prompt diagnosis extremely important.
What is eye cancer in children called?
The most common eye cancer in children is called retinoblastoma. It develops in the retina due to abnormal cell growth and typically affects infants and young children under five years old.
What causes eye cancer in children?
Retinoblastoma often occurs due to genetic mutations affecting retinal cell growth. These can be inherited or develop spontaneously. The exact cause isn’t always known, but early detection helps ensure successful treatment.
What is the most common eye cancer in children?
The most common eye cancer in children is retinoblastoma. It accounts for the majority of pediatric eye cancer cases and primarily affects children under the age of five.
