Retinoblastoma is a harsh reality some children face. It’s a form of cancer that manifests in the retina, the part of the eye that senses light. This issue is close to my heart, as an ophthalmologist. Our role becomes critical in these cases. Through frequent monitoring – like a diabetic eye exam Florida ophthalmologists conduct – we can detect this disease early. Early detection can make a world of difference.
Retinoblastoma begins in the retina. It is most common in children under the age of five. Yet, with early detection and proper treatment, the outcomes are generally positive. The majority of children survive this ordeal.
As ophthalmologists, our role is not only to treat the disease but also ensure the child’s vision is preserved as much as possible. Regular eye exams play a key part in this. The diabetic eye exam we conduct in Florida is an example of the rigorous testing we do to monitor eye health.
Let’s look at some numbers now. They say a lot about the importance of early detection and proper treatment.
| Stage of Detection | Survival Rate | Vision Retention Rate |
| Early (Tumor is small and limited to the retina) | 95% | 80% |
| Late (Tumor has spread beyond the eye) | 15% | 5% |
These numbers show the stark reality. Early detection and treatment are paramount. This is where our role as ophthalmologists becomes even more critical.
We use a range of treatments for retinoblastoma – surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and laser therapy. The choice depends on the stage and extent of the disease. We always aim for the best outcome for the child – survival and maximum vision retention.
Retinoblastoma is a fearsome challenge. But with timely intervention, the right treatment, and the collective effort of the medical team, parents, and the child, victory is possible. This is our mission as ophthalmologists – to save sight and lives.