Saturday, April 9, 2011

Cancers in Children

Retinoblastoma (Eye cancer)

This cancer originates in the tissues of the retina of the eye. Retina is the light sensitive layer of nerve tissues at the back of the eye that makes the vision of an object possible. It affects children under the age of five. Retinoblastoma can be nonhereditary or caused by genetic factors.

Signs
Common symptoms of retinoblastoma (Rb) are:
  • Leukocoria, ( abnormal appearance of the pupil)
  • Impaired vision
  • Reddish eyes or irritation in the eyes
  • Squint in some children, cross-eyed ( strabismus)
  • Eye enlargement
Causes
What is the cause of retinoblastoma? In those children with genetic history of this cancer, there is a mutation on chromosomes. When there is a portion of chromosome distorted or missing, there are high chances of developing of cancer.

Diagnosis
Retinoblastoma is diagnosed with the help of a screening test that includes:
  • Eye examination to see if there are any structural abnormalities or malfunctioning.
  • The Red reflex in which a normal reddish-orange reflection from retina of the eye is checked with the help of a retinoscope or an ophthalmoscope from a distance of about 30 cm/1 foot. The test is usually carried out in a dim or a dark room.
  • Hirchberg Test/the corneal light reflex- this checks for symmetrical reflection of a light ray in the same spot on each eye while each cornea is exposed to light. This helps to determine about any squint/cross-eye problem in the child.
Treatment Methods
These vary from one place to another. The exact treatment is prescribed by the ophthalmologist, who carefully examines child’s eye and it differs depending upon individual case and complications. Treatment methods are:
  • Chemotherapy
  • External beam radiotherapy
  • Cryothreapy
  • Laser therapy
  • Radioactive plaques and
  • Surgery
Or a combination of more than one mentioned above.

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