Retrospective analysis of 58 children with retinoblastoma

We performed a retrospective analysis of 58 children with retinoblastoma seen at the University of Illinois at Chicago between 1960 and 1982. Our findings showed an almost equal distribution by sex, a predominance (69%) of white patients, and a common presenting symptom (70%) of leukocoria, with (22%) or without (48%) strabismus. Unilateral involvement was noted in 35 patients (60%). Of the 23 (40%) bilaterally affected children, 19 had simultaneous involvement at the time of diagnosis. All bilateral and 90% of the unilateral cases were diagnosed before age five years. Family history was positive for retinoblastoma in five bilateral and one unilateral case. At the time of diagnosis, 35 patients had stage V disease (Reese-Ellsworth classification, Table 1). Depending on the stage of disease treatment included enucleation, radiation, and chemotherapy. Mortality was 25% from 1960 to 1974, and zero thereafter.