Retinoblastoma: Life-Saving Detection in Primary Care

Retinoblastoma has a greater than 95% survival rate if detected early. The early detection of retinoblastoma in the primary care setting can preserve vision, reduce enucleation, and improve the lifespan of the pediatric patient. Primary care providers are vital for early identification and referral to the multidisciplinary team as they help detect the disease and guide the family through treatment. The American Academy of Pediatrics’ policy advises screening for retinoblastoma to occur at the newborn’s discharge from the hospital and routine preventative appointments. Gene therapy is a prospective therapy for retinoblastoma.