[Differential diagnosis between retinoblastoma and ocular toxocariasis]

We studied the sensitivity for Toxocara Canis (ELISA technique) in 5 cases of retinoblastoma confirmed by anatomopathological examination. Some presented with a positive reaction in serum and/or in aqueous. Now that surgical technique are available that permit to functionally save eyes affected by toxocariasis, we felt that a safe and reliable differential diagnosis between toxocariasis and retinoblastoma is of major importance. A positive ELISA test even in the aqueous fluid does'nt seem reliable enough for that purpose. We concluded to the necessity to include in preoperative tests some more invasive techniques such as aqueous tap for dosage of lactico-dehydrogenases or vitreous biopsy for cytological examination, at least for the most difficult cases with a positive ELISA test.