Brian Barso – Diagnosing Retinoblastoma Retinoblastoma is a relatively uncommon childhood cancer, affecting approximately fifty children in the UK each year. The cancer affects the retina, or light-sensitive lining of the eye, and is usually diagnosed before the child’s fifth birthday. Early suspicions of retinoblastoma are checked by GPs in a procedure called the red reflex test. Using an ophthalmoscope, the doctor shines a light into the eye – a red reflection indicates a healthy eye while a white reflection could indicate a problem, in which case the child may undergo a visual examination of the retina under general anaesthetic for complete diagnosis. If a child is referred with retinoblastoma the ophthalmologist will perform one or more of the following tests: ultrasound scan; MRI scan; lumbar puncture; bone scan; bone marrow sample; blood test. These tests will determine the size and position of the tumour or tumours and whether or not the cancer has spread outside the retina, which in turn determines what course of treatment will be initially pursued. Brian Barso has formed a new charity which aims to raise funds to help sufferers of retinoblastoma and their families to recover in peace. PoppyBelleDreams will be up and running and ready to receive donations later this year.