Marathi: रेटिनोब्लास्टोमा — डोळ्यातील पांढरी चमक
Retinoblastoma is the most common eye cancer in children, usually appearing before the age of 5. It begins in the retina, the light-sensing layer at the back of the eye. The good news is that retinoblastoma is highly curable when caught early — and the single most important warning sign is something many parents spot first in ordinary photographs: a white reflex in the pupil instead of the usual red-eye.
Warning Signs Beyond the White Reflex
- A white, yellow or glassy glow in the pupil, often first noticed in photographs.
- A new squint (one eye turning in or out).
- A red, painful or swollen eye without infection.
- Reduced vision, or a change in the colour of the iris.
Why Early Detection Saves Lives — and Eyes
Caught early, retinoblastoma has a cure rate above 95% in most children, and the eye and vision can often be saved with focal treatments. When diagnosis is delayed, the cancer can spread beyond the eye and become life-threatening. Treatment may include chemotherapy, laser or freezing therapy, and — in advanced cases — removal of the eye. At Suraj Eye Institute, any child with a suspicious pupil reflex is examined urgently and, where needed, referred for combined ocular-oncology care.
Frequently Asked Questions
I saw a white glow in one photo only — should I worry?
It is worth checking. A one-off camera artefact can look similar, but a true white reflex tends to recur in photos taken at different angles. Any persistent or repeated white glow should be examined without delay.
Is retinoblastoma hereditary?
It can be. Some children inherit a gene change that causes it, often affecting both eyes. If there is a family history, newborns should be screened early and genetic counselling offered.
Will my child lose the eye?
Not necessarily. When detected early, modern treatments can often save both the eye and useful vision. The earlier the diagnosis, the more options we have to preserve the eye.
How is it diagnosed?
By a detailed examination of the retina, usually under dilation or anaesthesia, supported by ultrasound or MRI scans to confirm the diagnosis and extent.
This needs urgent attention. Contact Suraj Eye Institute today.
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