Sandeep Dhand
Nutritionist And Health Educator
What is Retinoblastoma ?
Retinoblastoma is a rare type of eye cancer that usually affects young children, mostly under the age of five. It starts in the retina, which is the thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye. The retina detects light and sends messages to the brain so we can see.
Retinoblastoma can affect one eye (unilateral) or both eyes (bilateral). It can be hereditary (genetic) or non-hereditary. In hereditary cases, there is a higher risk that the cancer can also appear in other parts of the body later in life.
Causes of Retinoblastoma
The exact cause of retinoblastoma is a genetic mutation in a gene called RB1. This gene is responsible for controlling cell growth. When the RB1 gene is damaged or missing, cells in the retina can grow out of control and form a tumor.
Types of Retinoblastoma:
- Hereditary Retinoblastoma:
Passed from parent to child.
Usually affects both eyes.
Can increase the risk of other cancers later in life.
- Non-Hereditary Retinoblastoma:
Happens by chance (sporadic).
Usually affects only one eye.
Not passed down to future children.
Symptoms of Retinoblastoma
Parents are usually the first to notice something is wrong. Some common signs include:
A white glow in the pupil (often seen in flash photos; also called leukocoria).
Crossed eyes or squinting (strabismus).
Redness and swelling in the eye.
Poor vision or vision loss.
Different color in each eye’s iris (rare).
Pain in or around the eye (if cancer has spread).
If you notice any of these symptoms, visit a pediatric eye specialist or oncologist immediately.
Diagnosis of Retinoblastoma
To confirm retinoblastoma, doctors may perform the following tests:
- Eye examination (with anesthesia for babies).
- Ultrasound of the eye.
- MRI or CT scan of the head and eyes.
- Genetic testing for the RB1 gene mutation.
- Family history review.
Early diagnosis is critical. The sooner it is detected, the better the chances of saving the child’s sight and life.
Stages of Retinoblastoma
Retinoblastoma is staged based on how far it has spread:
Intraocular: Cancer is only inside the eye.
Extraocular: Cancer has spread outside the eye.
Metastatic: Cancer has spread to other parts like the brain or bones.
Treatment Options
The goal of treatment is to save the child’s life, preserve vision, and minimize side effects. Treatment depends on the size, location, and spread of the tumor.
- Chemotherapy
Uses anti-cancer drugs to shrink the tumor.
Can be given systemically (through a vein) or locally (into the eye).
Often used before other treatments to reduce tumor size.
- Laser Therapy (Photocoagulation)
Destroys tumor blood vessels using laser light.
- Cryotherapy
Freezes and kills cancer cells with extreme cold.
- Radiation Therapy
Uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells.
External Beam Radiation or Brachytherapy (internal radiation) can be used.
- Enucleation (Eye Removal)
If the tumor is large and vision cannot be saved, the eye may be surgically removed.
A prosthetic (artificial) eye can be fitted later.
- Stem Cell Transplant (in advanced cases)
In some metastatic cases, a stem cell transplant may be needed after high-dose chemotherapy.
Life After Treatment
Many children go on to live full and healthy lives after treatment. However, follow-up care is essential, especially in hereditary cases, to monitor for:
New tumors in the same or other eye.
Second cancers (in bone, skin, etc.).
Learning difficulties or emotional challenges.
Regular visits to the oncologist, eye doctor, and genetic counselor are highly recommended.
Nutrition and Diet Plan for Retinoblastoma Patients
A healthy, balanced diet plays a major role in supporting the immune system, helping in recovery, and reducing treatment side effects. While diet cannot cure cancer, it helps in improving strength, healing, and energy levels.
Nutrition Goals:
Support the body during treatment.
Boost immune function.
Maintain healthy weight and growth.
Reduce inflammation and fatigue.
Prevent constipation or digestion issues caused by medication.
Recommended Foods
- Fruits and Vegetables
Rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and E, and fiber.
Examples: Carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, broccoli, apples, bananas, papaya, oranges, and berries.
These support eye health and immunity.
- Whole Grains
Provide energy and fiber.
Examples: Oats, brown rice, whole wheat, quinoa.
Help reduce fatigue and promote digestion.
- Protein-Rich Foods
Helps in tissue repair and maintaining strength.
Sources: Milk, yogurt, paneer, dal, eggs, chicken, fish, soybeans, tofu.
- Healthy Fats
For brain health and energy.
Sources: Nuts (almonds, walnuts), seeds (chia, flax), olive oil, ghee (in moderation).
- Fluids
Encourage water, fresh fruit juices, coconut water, and herbal teas.
Avoid sugary and carbonated drinks.
Foods to Avoid
Processed and fried foods.
Excess sugar and sweets.
Artificial preservatives and colors.
Caffeine (coffee, cola).
Junk food (chips, noodles).
Red meat and high-fat foods (limit intake).
Alcohol (if patient is older).
Sample Daily Diet Plan (for a 3-7-year-old child)
Early Morning:
A glass of lukewarm water with a few soaked almonds.
Breakfast:
Vegetable upma or oats porridge with milk.
A banana or apple.
Mid-Morning Snack:
Fresh fruit juice (like orange or carrot juice).
Handful of nuts/seeds.
Lunch:
Whole wheat roti with paneer sabzi.
Brown rice with dal or khichdi.
Cucumber/tomato salad.
Evening Snack:
Boiled sweet corn or sprouted moong salad.
Herbal tea (chamomile or tulsi) or milk.
Dinner:
Vegetable soup or clear chicken soup.
Soft rice or roti with light vegetable curry.
Fresh curd or raita.
Bedtime (if needed):
Warm milk with turmeric (haldi milk) for immunity and sleep.
Tips for Feeding During Chemotherapy
Children may have loss of appetite or taste changes.
Offer small, frequent meals every 2–3 hours.
Use colorful plates and fun food shapes to make food appealing.
Keep foods soft and easy to digest.
Avoid strong-smelling foods that may cause nausea.
Keep the child hydrated.
Include zinc, vitamin C, and protein-rich snacks to support recovery.
Psychological and Emotional Support
A cancer diagnosis can be stressful for both child and parents.
It’s important to provide:
Emotional support.
Counseling if needed.
A calm and positive environment.
Support from social workers or pediatric psychologists.
Prevention and Genetic Counseling
While not all cases can be prevented, genetic testing helps in families with a history of retinoblastoma.
Siblings of a child with hereditary retinoblastoma should be tested early.
Prenatal testing during pregnancy is also possible in high-risk families.
Key Takeaways
Retinoblastoma is a serious but treatable cancer, especially when detected early.
Watch for symptoms like a white glow in the eye, squint, or vision problems.
Treatment options include chemotherapy, laser, cryotherapy, or surgery.
A healthy, antioxidant-rich diet helps in faster recovery, maintaining energy, and improving immunity.
Parents should follow up regularly and focus on both physical and emotional care of the child .