Visual disorders of higher cortical function

Following stroke or other causes of brain damage, patients may demonstrate visual disorders of higher cortical function. These defects involve visual attention, oculomotor skills, visuospatial orientation and object recognition. It is important for optometrists to understand these conditions and consider their presence in individuals with persistent visual complaints despite a normal exam, or in patients who fail to respond to magnification in low vision rehabilitation. The diagnosis and management of these higher order visual disturbances are discussed.