Background: Retinoblastoma (RB) is a relatively uncommon tumour in childhood. The incidence of retinoblastoma in Mexico is probably higher than the incidence reported worldwide, however there is not enough information about the characteristics of this illness in Mexico. This report aims to present the results of a multicentre clinical survey of RB in Mexico. Methods: A retrospective study was carried out on all RB cases treated in 16 institutions during the last six years. The variables analysed were age at diagnosis, sex, affected eyes, treatment modalities, and pathological staging. Overall survival was obtained. Results: The authors analysed 500 cases; age range was 0-182 months. There were 364 unilateral cases (72.8%). Enucleation was performed in 84.9% of the patients. The St Jude's staging was: 7.4% stage I, 52.8% stage II, 18.0% stage III, 11.4% stage IV, 7.2% not evaluated, and 3.2% missing data. Chemotherapy was used in 74.4% of the patients. Disease free survival was 89% at 73 months follow up. Conclusions: The paper presents a great number of cases and pioneers multicentre studies in paediatric ophthalmology and oncology in this country. Given the great number of patients in advanced stages and the variability on treatment schemes, it is evident that it is mandatory to work in a cooperative group and develop a national early detection programme as well as a treatment protocol which include all specialists involved in the care of patients with RB.

In our experience, metastatic RB has a very high mortality rate in spite of the use of different chemotherapy regimens.

Background Early detection and timely referral are keys to improve survival in patients with retinoblastoma (Rb). In México, one of the main obstacles for an early diagnosis is the lack of knowledge of the disease. The objective of this study was to evaluate Rb comprehension in students in their last year of medical school. Procedure A questionnaire was completed by 791 students from 12 universities. Descriptive statistics from the population were obtained and every answer to each question was analyzed. Results Only 3.3% of the students got a proficiency grade. Less than 50% diagnosed Rb when an image was shown. Conclusions The students evaluated do not have the knowledge to detect the disease. It is necessary to develop continuous educational programs for first contact physicians. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011; 57: 1109–1112. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

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