Tests And Next Steps

Main tests for retinoblastoma

If a specialist thinks your child has retinoblastoma, your child will need to have some tests to check for it.

Tests for retinoblastoma may include:

• a red reflex test - a specialist will look at the back of the eye using a light
• an ultrasound scan where a small device will be placed on the eye to take images of inside the eye
• a blood test to test for changes in the gene that can sometimes cause retinoblastoma
• a vision test to check your child's eyesight, like a routine eye test
• an MRI scan to check parts of the head around the eyes

Your child may be given medicine to help them relax (sedation) or a general anaesthetic (so they're asleep) for some tests if they are very young. This is so a specialist can closely examine your child's eyes.

Find out more

• Diagnosing retinoblastoma (Childhood Eye Cancer Trust)

Getting your results

You should get your child's results on the same day as the tests, or after a few days.

A specialist will explain what the results mean and what will happen next.

If your child has retinoblastoma

It can be overwhelming to find out your child has cancer.

A specialist retinoblastoma team at the hospital will support your child and your family, and can answer any questions you might have.

They will also be able to suggest local services you might find useful.

Find out more

• Young people's cancer journey (Children's Cancer and Leukaemia Group)

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