Best Retinoblastoma Hospitals in India

Retinoblastoma is a rare and deadly cancer of the retina, the light-sensitive tissue in the back of the eye. This cancer often appears in early childhood, with the majority of cases discovered before the age of 3. While it is very rare, with about 5,000 to 8,000 new cases diagnosed every year, it has a high cure rate of 95-98%. Retinoblastoma can be hereditary or non-hereditary, and its degree of severity is often determined by when it is detected.

Forms of Retinoblastoma

• Hereditary Retinoblastoma: Hereditary retinoblastoma is caused by an inherited genetic mutation in the RB1 gene, which puts children at a higher risk of developing the disease. Children born with the mutated gene can inherit it from their parents who carry the gene or have a history of retinoblastoma. Hereditary retinoblastoma can affect both eyes.
• Non-Hereditary (Sporadic) Retinoblastoma: Non-hereditary (sporadic) retinoblastoma occurs when the RB1 gene mutation happens in the child but is not inherited from the parents. The mutation can occur during early fetal development or later in life.

Causes of Retinoblastoma

• Genetic Mutations: RB1 gene mutations disrupt normal cell growth in the developing eye, resulting in tumor formation.
• Family History: A mutant RB1 gene inherited from parents or a family history increases the chance of retinoblastoma.
• Sporadic Cases: Retinoblastoma can emerge in the absence of a family history or inherited mutations.

Symptoms of Retinoblastoma

Common signs and symptoms of retinoblastoma include:

• White Eye Reflection: Retinoblastoma can cause a white reflex in the center of the affected eye when exposed to light, resembling a camera flash.
• Swelling or Bulging of the Eye: The eye with retinoblastoma may appear larger or more prominent than the other eye due to swelling or bulging.
• Squint (Strabismus): Both eyes may appear misaligned or looking in different directions, known as squint or strabismus.
• Decreased Vision: The affected eye may have decreased vision, difficulty focusing on objects, and seem to wander.

Stages of Retinoblastoma

• Group A: Stage A tumors are limited to the retina and are smaller than 3mm, with no involvement of critical eye structures such as the optic disc and foveola.
• Group B: Stage B tumors are larger than 3mm or located near important structures like the optic disc and foveola, but are still confined to the retina.
• Group C: Stage C tumors extend minimally beyond the retina into the vitreous humor.
• Group D: Stage D tumors exhibit significant spreading beneath the retina and into the vitreous humor, often causing retinal detachment.
• Group E: Stage E tumors are the most advanced and involve large tumors that extend in front of the eye, resulting in complete loss of vision.

Risk Factors of Retinoblastoma

Common risk factors for retinoblastoma include:

• Age: Retinoblastoma mainly affects children, and it is rare for it to develop after the age of 6.
• Genetics: Children with a family history of retinoblastoma are at a higher risk of developing the condition, as it can be inherited through the RB1 gene.
• Paternal Factors: Advanced paternal age and exposure to radiation therapy may also increase the risk of developing retinoblastoma.
• Maternal Factors: Maternal factors, such as a diet low in fruits and vegetables during pregnancy or exposure to gasoline exhaust, may also contribute to the risk of developing the condition.

Diagnosis of Retinoblastoma in India

• Clinical Examination: Retinoblastoma is diagnosed through a physical examination and imaging tests. A specialist performs a thorough physical examination to assess the retina for tumors. The eye examination can be done under local or general anesthesia depending on the child’s age.
• Imaging Tests: Various imaging tests are used to confirm and locate retinoblastoma, especially when it presents atypically. These tests provide crucial information for staging and treatment planning.
  • Ultrasound: Ultrasound is a painless procedure that uses sound waves to create images that identify tumors and their characteristics within the eye. It is often used for diagnosis.
  • Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: It produces detailed cross-sectional images of the eye and helps in detecting any cancerous involvement outside of the eye.
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): It creates detailed images of the eye using magnetic fields. It provides insights into retinoblastoma’s presence and extent, particularly within the eye and brain.
• Genetic Testing: Genetic testing may be performed on children with a suspected genetic predisposition. Blood tests may be conducted to examine the chromosomes, specifically chromosome 13. Molecular analysis of the RB1 gene can also be conducted to identify gene mutations.
• Additional Tests: Further examinations may be necessary to evaluate cancer spread, such as lumbar puncture (to check cerebrospinal fluid for cancer cells) and bone marrow aspiration (to assess for marrow involvement).
• Hearing Test: A hearing test may be performed to monitor any potential hearing loss if chemotherapy is considered as part of the treatment.

Treatment of Retinoblastoma in India

Possible treatment of retinoblastoma includes:

• Surgery (Enucleation): It involves surgical removal of the affected eye, may be necessary in cases where other treatments are not likely to be successful, particularly in advanced cases.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is typically the preferred initial treatment for most retinoblastoma cases, aiming to shrink tumors and eliminate cancer cells. It involves the use of specific anti-cancer drugs, administered intravenously or directly into the eye or blood vessels. Trans-pupillary thermotherapy (TTT) is often combined with chemotherapy for a more comprehensive approach.
• Cryotherapy: Cryotherapy involves using extreme cold to destroy cancer cells and is typically used for small and peripheral retinal tumors.
• Laser Therapy (Photocoagulation): Laser therapy employs high-intensity laser light to destroy blood vessels supplying tumors, primarily used for small retinoblastoma tumors.
• Radiotherapy: Radiotherapy uses high-energy radiation to kill tumor cells. It may be administered externally (external-beam radiation therapy) or with a radioactive plaque directly placed on the eye (plaque brachytherapy). This method is mainly employed in cases with orbital involvement.
• Clinical Trials: Clinical trials are often considered as a treatment option for children with retinoblastoma, offering the opportunity to explore new and potentially more effective treatments. These trials are conducted by specialized cancer centers with extensive experience in pediatric oncology.

Cost of Retinoblastoma in India

The cost of Retinoblastoma treatment in India can vary depending on several factors. A comprehensive treatment can cost between $27,000 and $41,000, while surgical procedures like enucleation may cost around $6,700 to $13,400. The exact cost of treatment may differ depending on the specific approach adopted, the hospital’s location, and any additional procedures or services required.

Best Retinoblastoma Hospitals in India

Some of the best retinoblastoma hospitals in India are:

• Centre of Sight, New Delhi: It is a world-class hospital for the treatment of retinoblastoma. It is well-known for providing cutting-edge ophthalmic care, with a staff of highly competent professionals and cutting-edge facilities specialized in the diagnosis and management of retinoblastoma. The Centre for Sight is a top choice for families looking for the best care for this rare eye cancer in India, with a commitment to compassionate patient care and innovative treatment choices.
• Eye Q Hospital, Gurgaon: It is a prominent hospital with a reputation for treating retinoblastoma. The hospital provides comprehensive care for this rare eye cancer, with a dedicated staff of trained ophthalmologists and advanced testing equipment. Patients and families may rely on Eye Q Hospital to provide excellent retinoblastoma treatment and support services in India.
• Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon: It is a popular hospital known for its all-inclusive approach to retinoblastoma treatment. This hospital is equipped with a world-class team of ophthalmologists and cutting-edge technology and provides retinoblastoma patients with cutting-edge diagnosis and treatment. Because of its commitment to excellence and patient-centered approach, Fortis Memorial Research Institute is a popular choice for retinoblastoma treatment in India.
• Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi: It is a well-known hospital known for its excellent skill in the treatment of retinoblastoma. The hospital provides comprehensive care and sophisticated treatment options for patients with this rare eye cancer, thanks to a highly qualified team of ophthalmologists and cutting-edge facilities. Its dedication to cutting-edge technology and patient well-being strengthens its position as one of India’s top options for retinoblastoma treatment.
• Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai: It is a renowned hospital for retinoblastoma treatment. The hospital is equipped with a highly qualified team of ophthalmologists and advanced diagnostic capabilities, providing top-tier care for people suffering from this rare eye cancer. Its dedication to innovation, compassionate patient care, and cutting-edge treatment strengthens its place as one of the best hospitals for retinoblastoma treatment in India.
• Bharti Eye Hospital, New Delhi: It is a retinoblastoma treatment hospital of excellence. The hospital has a team of trained ophthalmologists and modern diagnostic technologies and provides complete services to patients suffering from this rare eye cancer. Bharti Eye Hospital’s dedication to patient care and track record in treating retinoblastoma make it a notable choice for such specialized care in India.
• Medanta – The Medicity, Gurgaon: It is a prestigious hospital known for its expertise in retinoblastoma treatment. The facility has a world-class staff of ophthalmologists and cutting-edge equipment to provide persons with this rare eye cancer with thorough diagnosis and treatment options. Medanta’s dedication to advanced care and patient-centered approach maintains its place as one of the top hospitals for retinoblastoma treatment in India.
• Artemis Hospital, Gurgaon: It is an exceptional hospital recognized for its expertise in the treatment of retinoblastoma. The hospital provides comprehensive care and innovative treatments for this rare eye cancer, with a team of highly qualified ophthalmologists and state-of-the-art facilities. Artemis Hospital is a top choice for retinoblastoma care in India due to its dedication to cutting-edge technology and patient well-being.
• BLK Super Speciality Hospital, New Delhi: It is a recognized hospital known for its expertise in the treatment of retinoblastoma. The hospital provides complete care for those with this rare eye cancer, thanks to a team of highly skilled ophthalmologists and innovative diagnostic capabilities. BLK’s dedication to cutting-edge medical technology and patient-centered care places it among the top retinoblastoma treatment hospitals in India.