Diseases

Retinoblastoma

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A malignant eye tumor usually seen in children, that arises in cells in the developing retina that contain cancer-predisposing mutations in both copies of the gene rb1. Abbreviated rb. The most common sign of rb is a white pupillary reflex to light (leukocoria).

SYMPTOMS

Retinoblastoma has few, if any, symptoms at first. It may be noticed if a pupil appears white when light is shone into the eye, sometimes with flash photography. Eyes may appear to be looking in different directions.

CAUSES

The body's cells reproduce themselves throughout a lifetime – tissues wear out and cells are replaced in a controlled manner. Retinoblastoma, like all cancers, occurs when that control is lost and cells begin to divide at an unusually high rate. Researchers are still working on the exact reasons for the gene mutation in retinoblastoma. However, they have discovered familial and non-familial causes for the disease.