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Updated: May 16, 2026
07:12
A Gaze-Contingent Display Framework for Perceptual Learning Research with Simulated Central Vision Loss
Published on: April 11, 2025
Complex visual manifestations of posterior cortical atrophy
Ramon Reñé1, Silvia Muñoz, Jaume Campdelacreu
1Departments of Neurology-Dementia Unit, Hospital Universitari de Bellvitge, L'Hospitalet de Llobregat, Spain. ramonrenye@hotmail.com
Summary
Posterior cortical atrophy (PCA) causes complex visual disturbances without eye problems. Early diagnosis through neurological assessment is crucial for patients presenting with these visual symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Ophthalmology
- Neurology
Background:
- Posterior cortical atrophy (PCA) is a rare neurodegenerative condition.
- It often presents with complex visual disturbances, initially without clear ocular pathology.
- Diagnosis can be delayed due to the subtle and progressive nature of symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical presentation and diagnostic journey of patients with posterior cortical atrophy (PCA).
- To highlight the importance of considering PCA in cases of unexplained visual disturbances.
- To emphasize the role of neurological assessment and advanced imaging in early diagnosis.
Main Methods:
- Case series describing 5 patients diagnosed with PCA.
- Clinical examination, neuroimaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography (PET) were utilized.
- Diagnostic timelines and patient demographics (age of onset 50-66 years) were recorded.
Main Results:
- Patients presented with complex visual symptoms, with diagnosis occurring 1-5 years after onset.
- MRI revealed predominantly right posterior cortical atrophy in 3 cases; 2 had nonspecific findings.
- Clinical and PET findings were crucial for diagnosis in some patients.
Conclusions:
- PCA should be suspected in patients with complex visual symptoms and no ocular pathology.
- Timely neurological assessment can expedite the diagnosis of PCA.
- PCA can progress to global dementia, with Alzheimer disease confirmed pathologically in one case.
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