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Posttraumatic cortical blindness: are we missing the diagnosis in children?
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Primary Children's Medical Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City 84113.
Pediatric Emergency Care
|December 1, 1990
Summary
Post-head trauma anxiety may stem from cortical blindness, a condition diagnosed after mild or severe injuries. Early identification of this visual impairment can reduce patient and parental distress.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Ophthalmology
- Trauma Care
Background:
- Head trauma, ranging from mild to severe, can precipitate various neurological and psychological sequelae.
- Anxiety and agitation are common, yet often unexplained, symptoms in patients recovering from head injuries.
- Cortical blindness, a specific visual deficit, is a potential, underrecognized cause of distress post-trauma.
Observation:
- This study presents two cases of posttraumatic cortical blindness.
- The cases illustrate the signs and symptoms associated with this condition.
- The presentation, diagnostic approaches, and outcomes of these patients are detailed.
Findings:
- Cortical blindness can occur following both mild and severe head trauma.
- Early recognition of posttraumatic cortical blindness is crucial for effective management.
- Understanding this syndrome can significantly alleviate anxiety in patients and their families.
Implications:
- Implementing screening protocols for visual disturbances post-head trauma is recommended.
- Enhanced awareness among clinicians can improve diagnostic accuracy for unexplained agitation.
- Timely diagnosis and management of cortical blindness can lead to better patient outcomes and reduced psychological distress.