Retinoblastoma: Warning Signs, Tests and Treatment

Retinoblastoma is a rare cancer of the retina that mainly affects young children. Suspected signs require prompt medical assessment; this is not a condition for medical-tourism marketing or remote diagnosis.

Signs that need urgent assessment

The main sign described by the NHS is a white glow or reflection in the pupil, sometimes noticed in low light or flash photographs. Other possible signs include a squint, a change in iris colour, swelling around the eye, uncontrolled eye movements, vision problems or eye pain. These signs can have other causes, but they should not be ignored.

The NHS retinoblastoma symptoms guide advises seeking an urgent GP appointment or NHS 111 advice for a white pupil reflection, swelling, suspected vision problems, pain or uncontrolled eye movements.

Tests and treatment

Specialist assessment may include eye examination under anaesthetic, imaging and genetic testing. Treatment depends on the child, whether one or both eyes are affected, tumour size and position, vision and whether disease has spread. Options can include laser or freezing treatment, chemotherapy, radiotherapy or removal of an affected eye. The specialist team’s priorities include treating the cancer and considering vision and long-term follow-up.

See the NHS guides to tests and next steps and retinoblastoma treatment.

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Revitalize does not present this article as a diagnosis, prognosis, quotation or substitute for urgent paediatric ophthalmology and oncology care. Families should use the appropriate local urgent pathway and specialist referral.