Heritable Retinoblastoma

Can retinoblastoma be cured?

Retinoblastoma can be cured in most cases, especially for those in which the disease is confined within the eye.

If left untreated, the cancer can spread out of the eye and to other parts of the body, where it becomes much harder to treat or may even result in loss of life. This is why early reporting of unusual symptoms is important.

What can I do to manage my increased risk of cancer?

Screening

1. Retinoblastoma
   
   • Regular eye examinations by an eye specialist
2. Skin cancer (melanoma)
   
   • Regular self-examination of skin
   • Note and discuss any new naevi (moles) with unusual or changing appearance with a skin specialist
3. Other cancers (brain tumours, bone cancer, soft tissue cancer)
   
   • Brain or whole-body magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans may be recommended

Your managing doctor(s) will discuss screening recommendations with you in greater detail. The age, onset and frequency of screening may depend on your personal and/or family history of cancer. Screening guidelines may change as more information is known.

Lifestyle adjustments

• Avoid unnecessary radiation exposure where possible (including X-ray, CT scans and external beam radiation)
• Avoid smoking
• Practice sun-smart behaviour (e.g., wearing sunscreen)