From the Guidelines
Leukocoria is defined as an abnormal white reflection from the retina of the eye, which can be related to abnormalities of the lens, vitreous, or retina, and requires immediate medical attention as it can indicate several serious eye disorders, including retinoblastoma, a rare childhood eye cancer 1.
Causes and Diagnosis
The common causes of leukocoria in children include:
- Retinoblastoma
- Persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous (PHPV)
- Retinopathy of prematurity
- Coats disease
- Congenital cataract
- Larval granulomatosis Diagnosis of these conditions is based on the clinical history, fundoscopic examination, and ocular US performed by the ophthalmologist, and may not require additional imaging 1.
Importance of Early Detection
Early detection of leukocoria is crucial, particularly for retinoblastoma, where prompt treatment significantly improves outcomes and can save both vision and life 1.
Imaging Evaluation
In situations where a malignant intraocular or intraorbital mass (retinoblastoma) is suspected, MRI of the orbits with and without IV contrast is useful in the initial evaluation, and is best performed in association with the MRI of the head 1.
From the Research
Definition of Leukokoria
- Leukokoria is an abnormal pupillary light reflection that usually results from an intraocular abnormality and is seen most often in children 2.
- It is a significant symptom that can be caused by various conditions, including retinoblastoma, persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous (PHPV), retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), Coats disease, toxocaral endophthalmitis, and retinal astrocytoma.
Causes of Leukokoria
- Retinoblastoma is the most common cause of leukokoria, accounting for approximately half of all cases in children 2.
- Other causes of leukokoria include: