Santa Marcelina Saúde increases eye preservation rates for children with retinoblastoma

A study conducted at the Santa Marcelina Saúde oncology center in São Paulo shows a significant increase in eye preservation rates for children treated for retinoblastoma. Data collected between 2001 and 2018 indicates that the rate of eye preservation rose from 35% to 60.1% following the consolidation of the Pediatric Oncology Service as a reference center in 2012.

The research, led by pediatric oncologist Sidnei Epelman, also noted a decrease in enucleation (surgical removal of the eye) from 69.1% to 38.9% and a reduction in extraocular disease cases from 20.6% to 9.7%. These improvements are attributed to faster diagnosis and organized local treatment.

Retinoblastoma is the most frequent intraocular cancer in childhood, with approximately 400 new cases estimated annually in Brazil. Key warning signs include leukocoria—a white reflection in the pupil often visible in flash photography—and strabismus. Early detection is critical, as tumors restricted to the eye offer higher cure rates and better chances of preserving vision.