Retinoblastoma Risk Factors

Retinoblastoma is a malignant tumor of the retina of the eye. It develops from immature embryonic cells. Normally, these cells mature and form normal retinal cells, but disruptions in the process of their development can lead to the cells starting to divide uncontrollably, forming a tumor. Retinoblastoma can be monocular (unilateral, that is, affecting only one eye – about 70% of all cases) or binocular (bilateral).

Risk factors

Retinoblastoma accounts, according to various estimates, for about 2-4% of all cancers of childhood, or about 3-4 cases per million children. Almost always this tumor is diagnosed in children of a very early age, up to 5 years old, in most cases even up to 2 years old. In adolescents and adults, this tumor practically does not occur.

Retinoblastoma refers to those few tumors of childhood in which heredity plays a very significant (and already well-studied) role. About 40% of retinoblastoma cases are associated with genetic mutations that can be transmitted from parents to children. In most cases, such hereditary retinoblastoma develops very early, up to 12-18 months of age, and often affects both eyes, although it may be unilateral. Sporadic, i.e. unrelated to hereditary factors, retinoblastoma is almost always unilateral.

The development of the hereditary form of retinoblastoma is associated with a mutation in the RB1 gene inherited from one of the parents. This mutation increases the risk of malignant transformation. In such children, the occurrence of one additional mutation in one of the retinal cells is enough to develop a tumor. Children with an inherited form of retinoblastoma even after successful treatment for this tumor have an increased risk of developing other tumors in adulthood.

Treatment of the disease

The treatment of such a pathology is a rather complex and long-lasting process. Therefore, the child and his parents should stock up on patience, increase their strength to combat a dangerous disease.

Support, both psychological and financial, is provided by the Israeli clinic Tel Aviv Medical Clinic. We help small patients and their families undergo rehabilitation, find funds for treatment, collaborating with charitable foundations. The Department of Pediatric Hemato Oncology is equipped with the most modern equipment that allows 100% reliable diagnostics, filigree accurate operations. Our specialists have solid experience in the treatment of severe pathologies, apply unique techniques, advanced technologies, which are characterized by effectiveness in the absence of serious complications.