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Charles Bonnet syndrome in temporal arteritis
M Sonnenblick1, R Nesher, Y Rozenman
1Department of Geriatric Medicine, Shaare-Zedek Medical Center, Jerusalem, Israel.
The Journal of Rheumatology
|August 1, 1995
Summary
Charles Bonnet syndrome, characterized by visual hallucinations, can signal temporal arteritis (TA) in older adults. Early diagnosis and steroid treatment are crucial for managing this condition and preventing vision loss.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neurology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Charles Bonnet syndrome (CBS) involves visual hallucinations in individuals with intact cognition.
- Temporal arteritis (TA), a form of vasculitis, can affect cranial arteries and lead to vision loss.
Observation:
- An 87-year-old woman experienced CBS symptoms, followed by headaches and unilateral visual loss.
- Temporal arteritis was confirmed via biopsy in the patient.
Findings:
- Initial steroid therapy resolved the visual hallucinations.
- Hallucinations recurred after 7 months, necessitating an increased steroid dosage.
Implications:
- CBS may serve as an early indicator of declining visual acuity in the elderly.
- Temporal arteritis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of older patients presenting with CBS.
- Prompt diagnosis and management of TA are vital to prevent irreversible vision loss.