Does chemotherapy treat retinoblastoma?

Retinoblastoma is a cancer of the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Chemotherapy may reduce tumour size so a specialist can use a local treatment directed at the remaining area. It may also be considered when tumours affect both eyes or when cancer has moved outside the eye.

Treatment can involve medicines through a vein, medicine delivered more directly to the blood vessels supplying the eye, or a combination with laser, freezing treatment, radiation, or surgery. The choice is carefully balanced against vision, the child's age, and the risk to the other eye.

Keep appointments with the paediatric oncology and ophthalmology teams because eye examinations guide treatment changes. Tell the team about fever, poor drinking, vomiting, new pain, or changes in vision. Ask how treatment may affect hair, energy, blood counts, school or play, and whether a central line will be used.

Call the oncology unit promptly for fever, chills, repeated vomiting, poor fluid intake, unusual sleepiness, bleeding, or a child who seems suddenly unwell. New eye swelling, severe eye pain, a sudden change in vision, or an injury to the treated eye needs urgent assessment. Use emergency services for collapse or severe breathing difficulty.

Is chemotherapy intended to shrink the tumour, protect vision, or treat spread? Which local treatments may follow it? How will examinations check response, and which symptoms require a same-day call?