User:Mr. Ibrahem/Retinoblastoma

Retinoblastoma (Rb) is a type eye cancer that forms from the retina. Symptoms may include a white pupillary reflex, crossed eyes, redness of the eye, and decreased vision. Onset is generally in the first 3 years of life. Complications may include spread to other parts of the body.

It occurs due to mutations of the RB1 tumor suppressor genes found on chromosome 13 at locus 14 (13q14). In about 5% of cases a single mutation is inherited from a persons parents; while in 95% of cases it occurs as a new mutation during early development. The second gene than becomes mutated later in life. In about 40% of new mutations it also affects the child's germline. Diagnosis is based on an eye exam and medical imaging.

Treatment depends on the size of the cancer. Small cancers may be managed with photocoagulation, cryotherapy, and radiation therapy; while in large cancers the eye is removed. Chemotherapy may also be used. With early treatment more than 90% of cases are curable, with most keeping some ability to see. For those whose cancer has spread, outcomes are poor.

Retinoblastoma affects about 1 in 15,000 to 30,000 people (5,000 to 8,000 cases per year globally). It represents about 3% of childhood cancers. The first modern description is from 1597 by Pieter Pauw; though a sculpture of the disease is believed to date back nearly 2000 years in Peru. It was recognized to result from the retina in 1809 by James Wardrop.