Spontaneous Regression of Retinoblastoma | Spontaneous Remission Database

Abstract

The present paper reports a case of spontaneous regression of a retinoblastoma leaving the eye with normal vision. The mode of regression is briefly discussed and the literature reviewed. Possible causes for spontaneous regression of retinoblastoma are suggested: Ischemia, febrile illness, immunological mechanism, or calcium inhibition of tumor growth.

Case Details

Personal Characteristics

A 52-year-old man with presbyopia. No previous history of eye disease, nor was there any family history of retinoblastoma. The patient had three children aged from between 14 and 25 years, all of whom had normal ocular fundi, none of them had any children.

Clinical Characteristics

Black spot in front of the left eye, to which he had become quite accustomed. Visual acuity was normal in both eyes. The right fundus was normal, but in the left eye ophthalmoscopy revealed a vertically oval, atrophic area approximately 4 x 6 disc diameters in size, situated two disc diameters above the optic disc. This area was crossed by several choroidal and a few retinal vessels. There was some pigmentation around the periphery of the lesion and from the centre arose a white, chalk-like, lobulated tumour, prominating 5-6 dioptres and containing a thin vessel loop on its nasal edge. Small exfoliated particles were seen floating in the corpus vitreum. There was a partial corpus detachment in the upper and temporal regions with small glistening, white flakes on its posterior surface. The eye did not show any sign of inflammation.

Remission Characteristics

Spontaneous regression of a retinoblastoma leaving the eye with normal vision.

Treatment & Mechanisms

Proposed Remission Mechanisms

Ischemia, febrile illness, immunological mechanism, or calcium inhibition of tumor growth.

Additional Notes

Radiological examination, using plain x-ray studies, revealed a small, irregular, central shadow which could represent calcification of a tumor.