Retinoblastoma Outcomes in a Tertiary Hospital in Northern Luzon, The Philippines: A 15-Year Experience

Abstract

Objective To describe the demographics, clinical profile, and outcomes of retinoblastoma patients seen in a tertiary hospital in northern Luzon. Materials and Methods This is a retrospective cross-sectional study of retinoblastoma patients at the departments of ophthalmology and pediatrics of a tertiary hospital in northern Luzon from 2005 to 2020. Results A total of 47 patients involving 53 eyes were included. Twenty nine (62%) are male and forty one (87%) had unilateral retinoblastoma. Mean age at consult was 24 ± 17 months, and mean interval from onset of symptoms to consult was 10 ± 11 months. Two (4%) had family history of retinoblastoma. Twenty-two (47%) patients had intraocular involvement. Leukocoria was the most common presenting symptoms at 62%. Overall survival was 53% with mean follow-up period of 24 ± 24 months. Difference in survival rates based on the extent of involvement was statistically significant (p < 0.001). Conclusion This is the first study that provided data on demographics, clinical profile, and outcomes of retinoblastoma patients in northern Luzon and the only study with data on clinical outcomes of retinoblastoma patients in The Philippines. Extraocular involvement is a significant factor in the low survival of retinoblastoma patients despite improvement in its management.