How does a child get retinoblastoma?
The tumor develops when there is a gene abnormality on chromosome number 13. Chromosomes contain the genetic codes that control cell growth and development. 90% of retinoblastoma cases develop “out of the blue” and without warning. 10% have a family member with retinoblastoma. 40% of children with retinoblastoma have a genetic, inherited form of the tumor, even if no-one else in the family has the problem. Children of affected individuals need exams for retinoblastoma. The other type of retinoblastoma is non-genetic and is not passed on from one generation to the next. Retinoblastoma is not caused by external factors such as smoking, drinking, etc.
