CAT’S EYE CAUGHT ON CAMERA – A CASE OF UNILATERAL RETINOBLASTOMA DIAGNOSED THROUGH PARENTAL OBSERVATION OF LEUKOCORIA

Abstract

 Retinoblastoma is the most common intraocular malignancy in children and frequently presents with leukocoria, a white pupillary reflex that is often first noticed by caregivers in photographs. This case highlights the pivotal role of early parental observation in diagnosing a potentially life-threatening yet treatable malignancy.

We report the case of an 8-month-old male infant whose mother noticed a white reflex in the right eye while reviewing family photographs. Clinical examination, ultrasonography, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a solitary, endophytic retinoblastoma with focal vitreous and subretinal seeding. The lesion was categorized as Group C according to the International Classification of Intraocular Retinoblastoma (ICRB). The child was commenced on a systemic chemotherapy protocol (JOE: Carboplatin, Vincristine, and Etoposide) as part of a chemo-reduction strategy aimed at preserving the globe and vision. The case underscores the importance of early detection, appropriate imaging, and multidisciplinary management in achieving optimal outcomes.