Charles Bonnet syndrome in children

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Neurology
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Charles Bonnet syndrome (CBS) involves visual hallucinations in psychologically healthy individuals with vision loss.
• CBS is well-documented in adults but less characterized in pediatric populations.
• This study focuses on CBS presentation in children with specific visual impairments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the occurrence and characteristics of Charles Bonnet syndrome in two children.
• To compare pediatric CBS symptoms with those reported in adult cases.
• To investigate the prevalence of CBS symptoms in a broader group of visually impaired children.

Main Methods:

• Detailed case reports of two children diagnosed with cone-rod dystrophy and experiencing visual hallucinations.
• In-depth interviews with the children regarding the nature of their hallucinations.
• Questioning of sixteen additional visually impaired children about CBS symptoms.

Main Results:

• Two children with cone-rod dystrophy developed complex visual hallucinations (geometric shapes, people, buildings) after rapid vision loss between ages 6-8.
• The children's hallucinations were similar to adult CBS descriptions, often interesting or entertaining, and rarely frightening.
• None of the sixteen additional visually impaired children reported experiencing hallucinations.

Conclusions:

• Charles Bonnet syndrome can manifest in children with significant vision loss, presenting similarly to adults.
• Early and rapid vision loss appears to be a key factor in the development of CBS in pediatric cases.
• Further research is needed to fully understand the prevalence and characteristics of CBS in children.