15th May 2019
As part of World Retinoblastoma Awareness Week 2019 (12-18 May), the Childhood Eye Cancer Trust (CHECT) is asking health visitors to familiarise themselves with the main signs and symptoms of retinoblastoma (Rb), and the correct referral procedure, in order to aid quick diagnosis of the condition.
Retinoblastoma – image courtesy of CHECT
According to a survey carried out on behalf of CHECT, 35% of parents of children aged 0-6 have asked their health visitor to check their child’s eyes, compared to 29% in 2014 – over a quarter (26%) say their child’s eye health is one of their greatest concerns.
Patrick Tonks, Chief Executive of the Childhood Eye Cancer Trust, said:
“Retinoblastoma is a rare, aggressive eye cancer which affects babies and children under the age of six. We know health visitors are a key source of information and support for parents of this age group, so we are asking them to take five minutes this World Retinoblastoma Awareness Week to familiarise themselves with the most common signs and symptoms of Rb. Over 90% of children diagnosed with Rb will survive, but more than half will lose an eye in order to save their life, so urgent referral and early diagnosis is vital to save a child’s sight, eyes and life.”
The main signs of retinoblastoma are:
- A white glow in the pupil or a white reflection in the pupil in flash photographs
- A new squint
- A change in the colour of the iris
- A deterioration in vision
Rarely, retinoblastoma may present as a red, sore or swollen eye without other signs of infection such as discharge. Any of these signs in isolation can indicate retinoblastoma. Around one child a week in the UK is diagnosed with retinoblastoma.
For more information go to https://chect.org.uk/resources-2/hv/
