Retinoblastoma Treatment by Stage

The stage of the retinoblastoma is one of the most important factors affecting treatment decisions. For purposes of treatment, cases of retinoblastoma are usually classified as being either intraocular or extraocular. Retinblastoma that has returned is referred to as recurrent. The following article breaks down retinoblastoma treatment by stage of the cancer. Options for retinoblastoma treatment may include enucleation, various forms of radiation therapy, cryotherapy, and different types of chemotherapy.

Retinoblastoma Treatment by Stage: An Overview

Different types of retinoblastoma treatments are available. Retinoblastoma treatment options vary based on:
 
  • The retinoblastoma stage (see Retinoblastoma Stages)
  • How likely it is that vision can be saved in one or both eyes
  • The size and number of tumors.
     
In general, treatment for retinoblastoma can include:
 
  • Enucleation
  • Radiation therapy
  • Cryotherapy
  • Photocoagulation
  • Thermotherapy
  • Chemotherapy.
     
For treatment, retinoblastoma is generally classified as either intraocular (within the eye) or extraocular (outside the eye). Cancer that has come back is also further classified as recurrent.
 
The following is a list of retinoblastoma treatment options for the various retinoblastoma stages.
 

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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
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