Recent advances and challenges in the management of retinoblastoma

Abstract

The treatment of retinoblastoma (Rb) has improved significantly in recent times. Worldwide, there is an increasing trend to use conservative treatment modalities that aim to preserve the globe as well as vision with minimum morbidity. Recently, the use of targeted delivery of chemotherapy to the eye in the form of selective intra-arterial and intravitreal chemotherapy has shown promising results. Radiotherapy is beneficial in selected cases, either in the form of plaque brachytherapy or as external beam radiotherapy. Orbital disease carries a poor prognosis for survival. However, a multimodal treatment protocol has improved survival in children with extraocular disease. Nevertheless, challenges remain, especially for the developing world. This review aims to highlight recent advances in the management of Rb that have contributed towards improving treatment outcomes and also discuss the challenges ahead, with special reference to the Indian scenario.