Title:Present Scenario and Future Prospects in the Management of Retinoblastoma: A Review
Volume: 21
Issue: 1
Author(s): Vikas Shrivastava*, Pramod Kumar Sharma, Kamal Pant and Rahul Banik
Affiliation:
- Department of Optometry, School of Medical and Allied Sciences, Galgotia University, Gautam Buddha Nagar U.P.
India
Keywords:
Retinoblastoma, ocular carcinoma, retinoblast cells, progenitor cells, RB genes, cryotherapy, thermotherapy, radiotherapy, chemotherapy.
Abstract: Retinoblastoma is the most common pediatric ocular cancer. This cancer occurs due to
malignancy in retinoblast cells, which are precursors of photoreceptors, horizontal cells, amacrine
cells, muller cells, and retinal progenitor cells in the retina of the eye. Genetic correlation has been
observed in most cases of retinoblastoma. It is caused due to the suppression or mutation of the retinoblastoma
1 gene (RB1 gene), which is located at the 14th band of both alleles of the 13th human
chromosome. RB1 gene is a tumour suppressor gene responsible for regulating cell growth and controlling
abnormal cell division. In the last two decades, as accurate identification of characteristic features
of cancer cells at various stages of retinoblastoma has been made, we can now plan more advanced
and personalized management of the disease due to improved and focused therapeutic effects
of cryotherapy, thermotherapy, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and surgical interventions. These efforts
can lead to a better survival rate with reduced damage to the non-cancerous cells in the eyeball, promoting
better visual performance (better visual acuity and visual axis alignment). Based on studies
published in PubMed and Google Scholar till 2023, current treatment options at various stages of retinoblastoma
are reviewed to suggest the most promising treatment options. Based on this information,
a clear treatment flowchart has been prepared. This review article can assist researchers, eye
specialists, geneticists, and cancer specialists in determining the most promising method for treating
retinoblastoma at various stages.
