A case of retinoblastoma masquerading as endophthalmitis: Unusual presentation and clinicopathological correlation

Retinoblastoma is a serious childhood intraocular neoplasm that can be diagnosed clinically with the aid of B-scan ultrasound, and radiological examination. On the other hand, the differential diagnosis includes benign and other masquerading conditions such as uveitis and endophthalmitis thus adding challenge to the proper diagnosis.

A six-year-old girl presented with leukocoria and decreased vision of the right eye. Patient was diagnosed and treated as a case of endophthalmitis elsewherewith no improvement. She was re-evaluated in our hospital and found to have cataract with ruptured capsule, and no view to the fundus. B scan was conducted and showed posterior cavity mass with calcification, and retinal detachment. Retinoblastoma was suspected and proved by examination under anesthesia. Enucleation was carried out and the diagnosis was further confirmed by histopathological examination.

Diagnosis of retinoblastoma can be challenging since leukocoria is the most common presenting complaint, which can be also seen in other benign conditions such as Coat's disease. It may also masquerade as endophthalmitis, uveitis with or without glaucoma, and retinal detachment. High suspicious of retinoblastoma in children and appropriate examination and work up with the aid of Biomicroscopy and radiological examination will help reaching the appropriate diagnosis saving patients unnecessary interventions with related morbidity.

Retinoblastoma has a wide spectrum of clinical presentations and must be ruled out before performing any intraocular procedure.