Evalynn, Gabriel, Abby and John all developed strabismus (squint or turned eye), one of the most common signs of retinoblastoma. This can also occur in healthy eyes or affect multiple family members without eye cancer. Sandra Staffieri, Retinoblastoma Care Co-ordinator at the Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne, explains, and answers the key question – when should parents and doctors be concerned?
Familial retinoblastoma affects more than one person in a family, and individuals with a heritable RB1 gene mutation have increased cancer risk throughout life. Finding cancer early is vital for the best treatment and outcomes. Revisiting blogs from ocular oncologist Alison Skalet M.D. PhD, and WE C Hope CEO / Rb Survivor, Abby White, we explore screening for high-risk individuals at all stages of life.
Many parents and survivors report signs and symptoms of retinoblastoma and related second cancers to primary care providers. Prompt referral is vital for timely diagnosis and optimal treatment. WE C Hope CEO Abby White explores who needs referral and when, and the key elements of an effective referral process – for children with possible eye cancer, and survivors throughout life.
