A 2-year-old child is brought to the clinic because the parents noticed a white reflection in the pupil of the eye in photographs and occasional eye crossing. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Cataract is incorrect because although cataracts can cause a cloudy or white appearance of the lens, they are less commonly associated with leukocoria (white pupillary reflex) seen in photographs and are not typically linked with intermittent eye crossing in toddlers. B. Retinoblastoma is correct because leukocoria (white reflection in the pupil) is the classic and most common presenting sign of this malignant eye tumor in young children. Strabismus or eye crossing often occurs because the tumor interferes with normal vision. Retinoblastoma is a medical emergency, and early detection is critical to preserve vision and life. C. Strabismus is incorrect because while it involves misalignment of the eyes, it does not cause a white pupillary reflex. Strabismus may be a symptom of an underlying condition, such as retinoblastoma, but it is not the primary diagnosis given these findings. D. Glaucoma is incorrect because pediatric glaucoma typically presents with tearing, photophobia, corneal cloudiness, and enlarged eyes, not leukocoria. Eye crossing is also not a primary feature of glaucoma.