Late presentation of retinoblastoma in Malaysia

Abstract

The aims of this study were to review the presenting features, treatment and outcome for Malaysian children with retinoblastoma currently. This was a prospective study, conducted at the General Hospital Kuala Lumpur from August 2001 until October 2007. Clinical data were collected at presentation and follow-up. One hundred five children were diagnosed to have retinoblastoma. There were 55 males and 50 females, ranging in age from 1 month to 14 years (median 20 months). Seventy-six children were Malay in ethnic origin (73%), 14 Chinese (13%), 12 Indian (11%), and other races (3%). Sixty-four children presented with leukocoria (61%), followed by 23 with proptosis (22%), 13 with squint (12%), and 3 with orbital cellulitis (3%). Thirty-three children (31%) deferred treatment for 6 months or more. Overall, 56 children had extraocular disease (55%), 52 at presentation, 4 later. Seventy-one children (68%) underwent primary enucleation, 76 received chemotherapy (72%), and 23 radiotherapy (22%). Fifty-seven children are alive (54%), of whom 3 are blind (5%). Twenty-seven children were lost to follow-up (26%) and 21 have died (20%). Retinoblastoma in Malaysia is still characterized by predominantly extraocular disease due to late presentation and high rates of abandonment.