Cortical Vision Impairment

Cortical Vision Impairment (CVI)

Cortical Vision Impairment (CVI), also known as Cerebral Visual Impairment, is a neurological condition where visual dysfunction arises from damage or atypical structures in the brain’s visual pathways and processing centers, rather than abnormalities in the eyes themselves. This condition is notably prevalent among children in regions with advanced neonatal healthcare.

Causes of Cortical Vision Impairment

CVI can result from various factors that affect the brain’s visual processing areas:

Perinatal Hypoxia-Ischemia: Insufficient oxygen or blood flow to the brain around the time of birth can lead to significant neurological impairments, including CVI.

Infections: Severe infections reaching the brain, such as meningitis or encephalitis, can damage visual processing centers.

Traumatic Brain Injury: Head injuries, especially those affecting the occipital lobes, can disrupt visual pathways.

Hydrocephalus: An abnormal buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain can increase pressure and affect areas responsible for vision.

Genetic Conditions: Certain genetic disorders are associated with developmental anomalies in the brain’s visual regions.

Diagnosis of Cortical Vision Impairment

Diagnosing CVI involves a comprehensive approach:

Medical History: Evaluating any neurological events, developmental milestones, and existing medical conditions.
Eye Examination: Conducting thorough eye assessments to rule out ocular causes of visual impairment.
Neuroimaging: Utilizing imaging techniques like MRI or CT scans to identify brain abnormalities affecting visual processing.
Behavioral Assessments: Observing visual behaviors and responses to various stimuli to identify characteristic patterns associated with CVI.