Historical and modern approaches to chemotherapy for retinoblastoma

Although the survival rates of retinoblastoma patients in the USA and other developed nations approach 98% and globe salvage rates have increased dramatically over time, many challenges still face both the ocular and pediatric oncologists who care for the patients with this disease. In this review, we discuss the current strategy for the utilization of chemotherapeutic agents for retinoblastoma, including intravenous delivery, subconjunctival injections and intra-arterial administration. We also review the current uses of chemotherapy for metastatic disease. The challenges and complications encountered with chemotherapeutic treatment strategies in this unique patient population will be discussed. Finally, we address the novel pharmacotherapies and delivery systems currently being explored in the laboratory that will soon be critical in clinical settings.