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Visual field defects in children with brain tumors.
Anna Boethun1,2,3, Barbara Johanne Thomas Nordhjem4, René Mathiasen5,4
1Department of Ophthalmology, Copenhagen University Hospital- Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark. anna.oline.boethun@regionh.dk.
BMC Ophthalmology
|August 5, 2025
Summary
Visual field defects (VFDs) are common in pediatric brain tumor patients, with 26% of those tested showing abnormalities. Early visual field testing is crucial, as VFDs can be asymptomatic and are linked to poorer vision outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Neurology
- Neuro-oncology
Background:
- Visual field defects (VFDs) affect up to 25% of children with brain tumors.
- Early VFD identification is vital for timely treatment and vision preservation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the frequency and associated factors of preoperative VFDs in pediatric brain tumor patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of medical records from 485 pediatric brain tumor patients in Denmark (2007-2017).
- Data collected included demographics, tumor characteristics, and clinical/ophthalmic findings.
Main Results:
- 26% of 198 tested children had VFDs.
- VFDs correlated with reduced visual acuity, abnormal pupillary responses, and papilledema.
- 25% of children with VFDs had no visual symptoms, and 12% had no other ophthalmic abnormalities.
Conclusions:
- VFDs are prevalent in pediatric brain tumors but can be asymptomatic or subtle.
- Visual field testing is essential for diagnosis and should be considered for all pediatric brain tumor patients, especially those with visual symptoms or papilledema.
