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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Apr 16, 2026

Assessing Binocular Central Visual Field and Binocular Eye Movements in a Dichoptic Viewing Condition

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Published on: July 21, 2020

An atypical presentation of visual conversion disorder.

Brian K Foutch¹

¹University of the Incarnate Word, Rosenberg School of Optometry, United States.

Journal of Optometry

|March 7, 2015

Summary

Visual conversion disorder (VCD) is a form of nonorganic vision loss. A case study highlights rapid visual recovery upon discussing emotional stressors, confirming VCD diagnosis and aiding clinical evaluation.

Keywords:

Malingering Nonorganic vision loss Pérdida de visión Pérdida de visión no orgánica Trastorno de conversión visual Trastorno facticio Vision loss Visual conversion disorder

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Area of Science:

Ophthalmology
Neuroscience
Psychiatry

Background:

Nonorganic vision loss constitutes up to 5% of patient cases.
It manifests as malingering or visual conversion disorder (VCD).
VCD diagnosis requires careful evaluation to exclude organic causes.

Observation:

A new mother presented with vision loss following her father's death and husband's deployment.
She had a recent concussion history from a motor vehicle accident.
Clinical tests yielded equivocal results, with some suggesting intact vision and others a neurological cause.

Findings:

The patient experienced rapid recovery of normal visual acuity when prompted to discuss emotional stressors.
This swift improvement strongly indicated a psychogenic origin for the vision loss.
The case underscores the importance of considering psychological factors in vision impairment.

Implications:

Primary eye care professionals should be aware of visual conversion disorder.
Clinical evaluation for VCD involves assessing responses to emotional stimuli.
Early recognition and diagnosis of VCD can improve patient outcomes and guide appropriate management.