Advanced Retinoblastoma Diagnostic Tests

After an initial diagnosis is made, some children may undergo advanced pediatric retinoblastoma tests to confirm the diagnosis. Advanced pediatric retinoblastoma tests will also allow doctors to assess the cancer and determine whether or not it has spread to other areas of the head or body. Staging is an important part of this process. With staging, doctors will determine the scope of the cancer. Once this is determined, a detailed treatment plan can be devised based on each patient’s condition.

Pediatric Retinoblastoma Blood Tests

Pediatric retinoblastoma blood tests may be used to check the child’s kidneys and liver for any signs of malfunction. Blood tests may also be used to examine changes in chromosome 13. Chromosome 13 is a genetic component that may indicate pediatric retinoblastoma. Blood tests may also be used to examine other abnormalities in the blood that may be signs of retinoblastoma.

Spinal Tap Test

A spinal tap, also called a lumbar puncture, may be included in advanced pediatric retinoblastoma tests. During a spinal tap, a hollow, thin needle is used to draw a sample of cerebrospinal fluid. This fluid surrounds the spinal cord and brain. When pediatric retinoblastoma spreads, cancerous cells may often be found in the cerebrospinal fluid. A spinal tap is typically only performed when doctors have reason to believe that the cancer may have spread the brain.

Pediatric Retinoblastoma Bone Marrow Tests

Advanced pediatric retinoblastoma tests may include examination of the child’s bone marrow. Bone marrow is a soft material inside certain bones in the body. Pediatric retinoblastoma bone marrow tests are used to determine if the cancer has spread to the bone. These tests include bone marrow aspiration and bone marrow biopsy. Typically, these two tests are performed at the same time.

Bone Marrow Aspiration

Bone marrow aspiration is the process of aspirating, or drawing, a sample of bone marrow. This sample is typically taken from the child’s pelvis, or hip bone. In some cases of retinoblastoma, a bone marrow aspiration will involve the sternum, or breastbone, as well as certain other bones. Due to the pain that may be caused by bone marrow aspiration, the child is typically given pain reduction drugs or general anesthesia.

Bone Marrow Biopsy

Bone marrow biopsy is a type of advanced pediatric retinoblastoma test that is typically performed in conjunction with a bone marrow aspiration. During a bone marrow biopsy, a slightly larger needle is used. The needle is pushed into the bone and twisted to remove a small sample of bone as well as bone marrow. The samples are then microscopically examined for retinoblastoma cells.