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Functional visual loss in an Israeli pediatric population
Michael Kinori1, Tamara Wygnanski-Jaffe, Ruth Huna-Baron
1Goldschleger Eye Institute, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel. mkinori@hotmail.com
The Israel Medical Association Journal : IMAJ
|January 28, 2012
Summary
Pediatric functional visual loss (FVL) often affects girls and typically resolves spontaneously. Most children with FVL experienced symptom improvement or resolution without medical intervention.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatrics
- Psychosomatic Medicine
Background:
- Pediatric functional visual loss (FVL) is vision loss without organic pathology.
- Limited long-term follow-up studies exist for pediatric FVL.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize pediatric FVL in Israeli children with long-term follow-up.
- To analyze the outcomes of pediatric FVL cases.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review of pediatric FVL patients (2000-2010).
- Inclusion criteria: adequate follow-up (≥2 months).
Main Results:
- 12 pediatric FVL patients identified; 9 were female.
- Most cases (75%) presented with bilateral visual loss.
- 9/12 patients achieved complete resolution, 2 had symptom relief; no organic cause found.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric FVL can affect all age groups, often presenting as bilateral acuity and visual field loss.
- Most pediatric FVL cases resolve or improve spontaneously without specific medical treatment.
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