Specialized Retinoblastoma Care in Texas: What Parents Should Know
When your child’s health is at stake, finding the right care is everything. At Retina Consultants of Texas (RCTX), we are proud to offer expert diagnosis and treatment for retinoblastoma, a rare but serious eye cancer that affects young children. Here’s what parents should know, and why specialized care matters.
What is Retinoblastoma?
Retinoblastoma is a cancer that forms in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. It usually develops in children under the age of six and can affect one or both eyes. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical, not only to preserve vision but to protect your child’s overall health.
Early Signs of Retinoblastoma
In many cases, retinoblastoma is first noticed at home. Some early signs to watch for include:
- A white glow in the pupil (often seen in photos when a flash is used)
- Eyes that appear crossed or don’t look in the same direction
- Redness or swelling in the eye
- Poor vision
- Visible changes in the appearance of the eye (bulging, a change in one eye color)
Early detection can significantly increase the chances of saving vision, preserving the eye, and achieving a full recovery.
Retinoblastoma Treatment Options
The good news is that retinoblastoma is one of the most curable forms of childhood cancer, especially when caught early and treated with specialized techniques. Retinoblastoma treatment depends on several factors, including the size, location, and spread of the tumor. Treatment may consist of one or a combination of the following therapies (but are not limited to):
- Laser therapy to target and shrink the tumor
- Cryotherapy, which involves freezing the tumor
- Chemotherapy, sometimes delivered directly into the eye or through the bloodstream
- Radiation therapy, which involves using high-frequency energy to destroy tumor cells
- Surgery to remove the eye if the cancer is advanced and at risk of spreading
The goal is always to save the child’s life, preserve the eye, minimize vision loss whenever possible, and limit treatment-related side effects. With prompt and expert care, most children live healthy, full lives, with about 90% preserving vision in at least one eye, and often both.
Expert Retinoblastoma Care at RCTX
Retina Consultants of Texas is proud to partner with Children’s Memorial Hermann Hospital – one of the few centers in the country with a dedicated team specializing in retinoblastoma, led by experts, including Dr. Amy Schefler. Our collaboration ensures that families in Texas have access to world-class, multidisciplinary care close to home. From advanced diagnostic tools to the latest treatment options, our team is committed to guiding your family through every step of the journey with expertise, compassion, and hope.
Learn more about our retinoblastoma care and contact us today to see how RCTX can help support your child’s vision and health.
