Detection and Diagnosis of Retinoblastoma: Can Mobile Devices Be the Next Step Toward Early Intervention?

Abstract

Retinoblastoma (RB) is a common intraocular cancer in pediatric patients worldwide, and screening is routinely performed throughout the first few years of life. The diagnosis is often made clinically; however, the diagnosis can be delayed due to undetectable leukocoria because of small tumor size at the time of examination, missed appointments, non-compliance with eye examinations, or failure to perform the exam.As mobile devices continue to gain in both popularity and functionality, their use via applications and smartphone attachments for ocular examination introduces a new avenue for screening, detection, and staging of RB both inside and outside the clinical setting. Currently, research regarding mobile device use is still in its infancy, and further research is required to determine whether mobile devices could play a significant role in assisting with the diagnosis of RB.The purpose of this systematic review was to determine whether the existing literature supports the use of mobile devices by healthcare providers, specifically ophthalmologists and non-ophthalmologists, as well as by parents for the early detection of RB. A comprehensive literature search was conducted via PubMed, the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), and Web of Science with a total of 10 studies included in the final analysis.

Strategies to improve diagnosis and access to treatment of retinoblastoma in low‐ and middle‐income countries: A systematic review

“…As they are more accessible, portable, and compatible with teleconsultation, they can be a cost‐effective strategy compared to traditional ophthalmoscopy. Promising results have been reported in the current literature, as also reviewed elsewhere 43 . It is essential to emphasize that healthcare professionals using these devices should receive proper instructions for use and interpretation.…”

“…Promising results have been reported in the current literature, as also reviewed elsewhere. 43 It is essential to emphasize that healthcare professionals using these devices should receive proper instructions for use and interpretation. Furthermore, expanding the use of the applications for screening to family members or individuals without medical training can increase the chances of early diagnosis, but at the same time, may increase testing anxiety and false-positive rates.…”

Análise do tumor ocular mais comum na infância: retinoblastoma

“…Além disso, podem ocorrer complicações com a detecção tardia da doença, levando ao risco de invasão das estruturas circundantes (ou seja, nervo óptico, coróide e segmento anterior) e metástases para órgãos distais através da corrente sanguínea. Assim, o rastreio e o diagnóstico precoces são fundamentais na prevenção da perda visual e na diminuição do risco de morbilidade e mortalidade (JABIR AR, et al, 2022;BORNFELD N, et al, 2020).…”