This past week, a 4 year old boy was diagnosed with Retinoblastoma at Park Ridge Vision. The boy was referred to Lurie’s Children Hospital for evaluation and treatment, which may include surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. Early diagnosis is critical as it can be life saving.
Retinoblastoma is a rare childhood cancer that is found in the retina, the light sensing tissue in the back of the eye. Retinoblastoma is found through evaluation of the eye as part of an eye examination. Since retinoblastoma is a cancer that causes a whitish growth in the retina it may cause an abnormal light reflex. Many times one eye will look to have a lighter reflex after taking a picture with a flash. The image below shows the abnormal reflex in the left eye. (Photo credit: EyeRounds.org)
There are other causes of a white reflex, known as leukocoria, in addition to Retinblastoma. Examples of some of the other causes of leukocoria are strabismus (an eye turn), a pediatric cataract and a large difference in the prescription between the two eyes.
Comprehensive eye examinations are critical for children and this is one important example as to why. Do not hesitate to schedule an appointment for your child at Park Ridge Vision here: https://www.prvisioncare.com/schedule-exam/
