Diseases and Conditions
Retinoblastoma
Overview
Symptoms
Causes
Complications
Prevention
Diagnosis
Treatment
Coping and support
Preparing for an appointment
Symptoms
Because retinoblastoma mostly affects infants and small children, symptoms aren't common. Signs you may notice include:
- A white color in the center circle of the eye (pupil) when light is shone in the eye, such as when someone takes a flash photograph of the child
- Eyes that appear to be looking in different directions
- Poor vision
- Eye redness
- Eye swelling
When to see a doctor
Make an appointment with your child's doctor if you notice any changes to your child's eyes that concern you. Retinoblastoma is a rare cancer, so your child's doctor may explore other more common eye conditions first.
If you have a family history of retinoblastoma, discuss it with your doctor if you're planning to have children.