How is cryotherapy used to treat retinoblastoma?

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Cryotherapy may be used to treat small retinoblastoma tumors that have not been fully eliminated by radiation therapy. The procedure involves using a small, cold substance like liquid nitrogen, to directly freeze and kill cancer cells. It is performed with the child completely anesthetized. Cryotherapy is often given more than once. Side effects are temporary swelling and possible harm to the retina.

Continue Learning about Eye Cancers

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

A diagnosis of ocular melanoma can sometimes be made with an ophthalmoscope alone. Otherwise, MRI, X...

Honor Society of Nursing (STTI)

Eye cancer is relatively uncommon. Cancer spreads to the eye more frequently than it originates ther...

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Eye Cancers

A rare disease, eye cancer is typically a secondary cancer that spread from other parts of the body. Primary intraocular cancers eye cancers that start in the eyeball are actually less common than secondary intraocular cancers. Eye cancer in general is uncommon in your lifetime, you have a 1 in 1,215 chance of being diagnosed with an eye cancer. Melanoma of the eye is the most common primary intraocular cancer in adults, caused when the cells that produce pigmentation grow abnormally. Children are most often affected by retinoblastoma, an eye cancer that begins in the back of our eye called the retina. While most risk factors for eye cancers are not fully understood, researchers believe that too much sun exposure may contribute to developing this cancer. Yearly eye exams may help catch the cancer early. See an ophthalmologist, a medical doctor who specializes in eye diseases, if you notice a dark spot on your iris, the colored part of your eye.

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