Retinoblastoma

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Definition

Retinoblastoma is a cancer that begins in the retina — the sensitive lining on the inside of your eye. Retinoblastoma most commonly affects young children, but can rarely occur in adults.

Your retina is comprised of nerve tissue that senses light as it comes through the front of your eye. The retina sends signals through your optic nerve to your brain, where these signals are interpreted as images.

Although a rare form of cancer, retinoblastoma is the most common cancer affecting the eye in children. The National Cancer Institute estimates about 300 children are diagnosed with retinoblastoma each year in the United States.

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Symptoms