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Galli J, Loi E, Calza S, Micheletti S, Molinaro A, Franzoni A, Rossi A, Semeraro F, Merabet LB, Fazzi E. Natural history of cerebral visual impairment in children with cerebral palsy. Dev Med Child Neurol 2024. [PMID: 39316724 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.16096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/26/2024]
Abstract
AIM To longitudinally evaluate the natural history of cerebral visual impairment (CVI) in children with cerebral palsy (CP) and identify which early visual signs or symptoms are associated with cognitive visual disorders (CVDs) at school age. METHOD Fifty-one individuals with CP and CVI underwent an ophthalmological, oculomotor, and basic visual function evaluation at three time points: T0 (6-35 months old); T1 (3-5 years old); and T2 (≥6 years old). We also performed a cognitive visual evaluation at T2. Logistic regression fitted using a generalized estimation equation (binary) and cumulative link models (ordinal) were used to model the outcomes of interest. RESULTS Ophthalmological deficits were stable over time, except for ocular fundus abnormalities (T1-T0, p = 0.01; T2-T1, p = 0.02; T2-T0, p < 0.01) and strabismus, whose frequency increased with age (T2-T0, p= 0.02 with T2-T0, p = 0.05). Conversely, fixation (T1-T0, T2-T0, p < 0.01), smooth pursuit (T2-T1, T2-T0, p < 0.01), saccades (T1-T0, T2-T1, T2-T0, p < 0.01), as well as visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and visual field (T1-T0, T2-T0, p < 0.01) all improved over time. Early oculomotor dysfunction was associated with CVD at T2. INTERPRETATION Although a diagnosis of CVI was confirmed in all children at each time point, several visual signs and symptoms improved over time; in some cases, they reached complete recovery at T1 and T2. These results emphasize the 'permanent' but 'not unchanging' nature of the CVI associated with CP during development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Galli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Erika Loi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Stefano Calza
- BDbiomed, BODaI Lab, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Serena Micheletti
- Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Anna Molinaro
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Alessandra Franzoni
- Department of Neurological and Vision Sciences, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Andrea Rossi
- Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Francesco Semeraro
- Department of Neurological and Vision Sciences, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Eye Clinic, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Lotfi B Merabet
- The Laboratory for Visual Neuroplasticity, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Elisa Fazzi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
- Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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Kılıç E, Turan A, Tunay ZÖ, Kavakci M, Akı E. Motor-Based Application Process for Cerebral Visual Impairment-Related Questionnaires for School-Age Children with Cerebral Palsy. Occup Ther Health Care 2024:1-23. [PMID: 39110868 DOI: 10.1080/07380577.2024.2389387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2024] [Indexed: 08/11/2024]
Abstract
This study aims to examine the psychometric properties of questionnaires related to cerebral visual impairment (CVI) in school-age children with cerebral palsy (CP). Additionally, it proposes an application process based on motor functionality for occupational therapists. A total of 288 children with CP were recruited for the study and administered the CVI Motor Questionnaire (CVI-MQ). The children's daily visual performance was assessed using the CVI Inventory and the Functional Vision Questionnaire (FVQ) considering the children's ambulatory status. The FVQ and the two factors extracted from the CVI Inventory significantly predicted visual functioning. Specific questionnaires related to CVI, applied with gross motor function in mind, can be valuable tools for occupational therapists to assess daily visual performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eray Kılıç
- Ankara Bilkent City Hospital, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Hospital, Vision Rehabilitation Laboratory, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ayşe Turan
- Ankara Bilkent City Hospital, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Hospital, Vision Rehabilitation Laboratory, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Zühal Özen Tunay
- Department of Ophthalmology, TOBB University of Economics and Technology, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Mariam Kavakci
- Department of Neuroscience, Ankara Yildirim Beyazit University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Esra Akı
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Occupational Therapy, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
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McCarty TV, Light JC. "It's like a guessing game all the time": parent insights on barriers, supports, and priorities for children with cortical visual impairment and complex communication needs. Augment Altern Commun 2023; 39:256-269. [PMID: 37158794 PMCID: PMC11267258 DOI: 10.1080/07434618.2023.2206904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Parents of children with both cortical visual impairment (CVI) and complex communication needs offer unique perspectives on their children's journeys to receiving proper diagnoses, supports, and interventions, such as augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). This study explored the lived experiences, supports, and barriers identified by parents through a qualitative phenomenological approach. Nine parents of children with both CVI and complex communication needs were interviewed virtually. Results indicated five themes descriptive of the parents' experiences: Challenges Piecing Together a CVI Diagnosis; Dealing with Low Expectations of Others; Parents Empowered to Take Action; Guessing Game to Determine Appropriate AAC to Accommodate CVI; and Aligning Professional Practice with Parent Priorities. Whereas some of these themes echoed the experiences of parents of children with complex communication needs (such as those with cerebral palsy) who were not specifically diagnosed with CVI, other themes were unique to this set of parents including the uncertainty of AAC design and intervention given the challenges of CVI and the necessity of more than one way for children to communicate given their visual challenges. This study highlighted the dire need for continued investigation to determine effective AAC interventions for individuals with CVI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara V McCarty
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
| | - Janice C Light
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA, USA
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Silveira S, Kelly N, Wright R. Australian children with cerebral visual impairment: using what we know now to improve future approaches. Strabismus 2023; 31:253-261. [PMID: 37997430 DOI: 10.1080/09273972.2023.2272675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Little has been reported on Australian children with Cerebral Vision Impairment (CVI). This paper aims to present the outcome of an audit focussed on children with the primary diagnosis of CVI, using findings from the Australian Childhood Vision Impairment Register (ACVIR). METHODS Records on 132 children (49% girls, 51% boys) from ACVIR data gathered from both the child's parent/guardian and their eye health professional were reviewed. The child's demographics, level of vision impairment, birth history, diagnostic journey, secondary ocular diagnoses, comorbidities and low vision support were analyzed. Several correlations were investigated using a Kendall's tau-b analysis including the relationship between vision and age of diagnosis; level of vision and developmental delay; and age of suspicion of visual impairment and age of diagnosis. RESULTS The most common level of visual impairment was blindness (39%), and most children were suspected and diagnosed of visual impairment in the first 6 months of life. The majority of children were born full term (72%), weighing >2000gms (84%). Nearly half of the cohort of children (48%) had a secondary ocular diagnosis with 44% having nystagmus. The majority of children (80%) had additional health problems, and 85% of children had additional disabilities, with 79% having developmental delay. CONCLUSION While the findings of this audit cannot be generalized to a wider population of Australian children with CVI, the outcome encourages continued discussion on CVI, to explore comprehensive assessment approaches which facilitate timely and accurate diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Silveira
- NextSense, NextSense Institute, North Rocks, NSW
- Macquarie School of Education, Faculty of Arts, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW
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Wilkinson KM, Elko LR, Elko E, McCarty TV, Sowers DJ, Blackstone S, Roman-Lantzy C. An Evidence-Based Approach to Augmentative and Alternative Communication Design for Individuals With Cortical Visual Impairment. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF SPEECH-LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY 2023; 32:1939-1960. [PMID: 37594735 DOI: 10.1044/2023_ajslp-22-00397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/19/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE This article highlights the contributions of three pillars of an evidence-based practice approach (service providers, researchers, and families/clients) in the development of a framework to offer a way forward for professionals, families, and technology companies to support optimal visual and communication outcomes of individuals with cortical visual impairment (CVI) who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). By providing available research findings as well as practical information and lived experiences, the article offers clinical considerations and design features that can lead to addressing the unique needs of these individuals. METHOD This article reviews literature concerning what is known about CVI and describes in detail and from multiple viewpoints important features required in AAC systems to support individuals with CVI and enable them to communicate effectively. RESULTS Components necessary for teams, communication partners, and AAC designers to optimize AAC system design in CVI are presented using external research evidence as internal evidence from lived experience to support their importance. CONCLUSIONS An AAC system design that is tailored to the unique visual processing characteristics in CVI is likely to promote positive communication outcomes. The presentation of the lived experience of an individual who has CVI themselves illustrates the need for individualized assessments and interventions that incorporate and reflect the research presented here. SUPPLEMENTAL MATERIAL https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.23902239.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krista M Wilkinson
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park
| | | | | | - Tara V McCarty
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park
| | - Dawn J Sowers
- Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park
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Weden K, DeCarlo DK, Barstow E. A Scoping Review of Intervention for Pediatric Cerebral Visual Impairment: Calling All Pediatric Occupational Therapists. Occup Ther Health Care 2023; 37:326-356. [PMID: 37139689 PMCID: PMC10950195 DOI: 10.1080/07380577.2023.2172761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Cerebral visual impairment is the leading cause of low vision in children, and functional gains can be achieved with intervention. To date there exists no evidence-based intervention protocol to guide rehabilitation therapists. This scoping review was conducted to synthesize the evidence currently available and explore current interventions in order to guide future research. This review identified five types of interventions for cerebral visual impairment; habilitation, visual stimulation, video game, color tent, and medical and also evidenced the need for standardized, objective measures of function for this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathleen Weden
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, USA
| | - Dawn K. DeCarlo
- Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, USA
| | - Elizabeth Barstow
- Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, USA
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Chokron S, Dutton GN. From vision to cognition: potential contributions of cerebral visual impairment to neurodevelopmental disorders. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2023; 130:409-424. [PMID: 36547695 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-022-02572-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Vision has a crucial role to play in human development and functioning. It is, therefore, not surprising that vision plays a fundamental role in the development of the child. As a consequence, an alteration in visual function is, therefore, likely to hinder the child's development. Although ocular disorders are well known, diagnosed and taken into account, cerebral visual impairments (CVI) resulting from post-chiasmatic damage are largely underdiagnosed. However, among the disorders resulting from an episode of perinatal asphyxia and/or associated with prematurity, or neonatal hypoglycaemia, CVIs are prominent. In this article, we focus on the role of the possible effects of CVI on a child's learning abilities, leading to major difficulty in disentangling the consequences of CVI from other neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD) such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), developmental coordination disorder (DCD) and autism spectrum disorders (ASD). Although we focus here on the possible overlap between children with CVI and children with other NDD, De Witt et al. (Wit et al. Ear Hear 39:1-19, 2018) have raised exactly the same question regarding children with auditory processing disorders (the equivalent of CVI in the auditory modality). We underline how motor, social and cognitive development as well as academic success can be impaired by CVI and raise the question of the need for systematic evaluation for disorders of vision, visual perception and cognition in all children presenting with a NDD and/or previously born under adverse neurological conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvie Chokron
- INCC, CNRS, UMR8002, Université de Paris-Cité, Paris, France.
- Institut de Neuropsychologie, Neurovision et Neurocognition, Hôpital-Fondation A. de Rothschild, Paris, France.
| | - Gordon N Dutton
- Department of Vision Science, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK
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8
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Altınbay D, Taşkın İ. Evaluation of Behavioral Characteristics in Response to Visual Stimuli in Infants with Cerebral Visual Impairment. Turk J Ophthalmol 2023; 53:1-7. [PMID: 36847612 PMCID: PMC9973211 DOI: 10.4274/tjo.galenos.2022.14296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives To evaluate the behavioral characteristics of infants with cerebral visual impairment (CVI) in response to visual stimuli and the frequency of these features. Materials and Methods In this retrospective study, 32 infants aged 8-37 months who were referred to the low vision unit in 2019-2021 and diagnosed with CVI based on their demographic characteristics, systemic findings, and standard and functional visual examinations were evaluated. The frequency of ten behavioral characteristics exhibited by infants with CVI in response to visual stimuli as defined by Roman-Lantzy was examined in the patients. Results The mean age was 23.46±11.45 months, the mean birth weight was 2,550±944 g, and the mean gestational age at birth was 35.39±4.68 weeks. There was hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy in 22%, prematurity in 59%, periventricular leukomalacia in 16%, cerebral palsy in 25%, epilepsy in 50%, and strabismus in 68.7% of the patients. Color preference for fixation was observed in 40% and visual field preference was observed in 46% of the patients. The most preferred color was red (69%) and the most preferred visual field was right visual field (47%). Difficulty with distance viewing was observed in 84% of patients, visual latency in 72%, need for movement in 69%, absence of visually guided reach in 69%, difficulty with visual complexity in 66%, difficulty with visual novelty in 50%, light-gazing/nonpurposeful gaze in 50%, and atypical visual reflexes in 47%. There was no fixation in 25% of the patients. Conclusion Behavioral characteristics in response to visual stimuli were observed in most infants with CVI. Knowing and recognizing these characteristic features by ophthalmologists will assist in early diagnosis, referral to visual habilitation, and planning habilitation techniques. These characteristic features are important in order to not miss this critical period in which the brain is still plastic and good responses to visual habilitation can be obtained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deniz Altınbay
- Private Niv Eye Center, Adana, Türkiye.,Toros University, Vocational School, Program of Opticianry, Mersin, Türkiye.,Ankara University Graduate Faculty of Health Sciences, Ankara, Türkiye
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9
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Zihl J, Unterberger L, Lippenberger M. Visual and cognitive profiles in children with and without cerebral visual impairment. BRITISH JOURNAL OF VISUAL IMPAIRMENT 2023. [DOI: 10.1177/02646196221149564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Reliable differentiation of visual-perceptual difficulties in children with and without cerebral visual impairment (CVI) can often pose a diagnostic challenge. We, therefore, assessed the visual-perceptual profile in 94 children with and 77 children without suspected CVI between the ages of 8 and 17 years in a non-clinical setting, using a screening questionnaire and standardized visual-perceptual tests. Children with suspected CVI reported more frequently greater visual difficulties, had lower visual acuity, and were significantly impaired in visual search tests, in visual form and object perception, in visual space perception, and in visual text processing. There were no significant differences between groups in stereopsis, fixation stability, motility, horizontal saccadic eye movements, and convergence and accommodation. Cognitive performance in auditory attention and verbal short-term and working memory was similar in both groups. Our results indicate that the use of an appropriate questionnaire and specific visual-perceptual tests enables valid diagnostic detection of CVI. The additional use of cognitive tests also allows differentiation between primary and secondary impairments in visual perception.
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Zhang X, Manley CE, Micheletti S, Tesic I, Bennett CR, Fazzi EM, Merabet LB. Assessing visuospatial processing in cerebral visual impairment using a novel and naturalistic static visual search task. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2022; 131:104364. [PMID: 36334401 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2022.104364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cerebral visual impairment (CVI) is a brain based visual disorder associated with the maldevelopment of central visual pathways. Individuals with CVI often report difficulties finding a target of interest in cluttered and crowded visual scenes. However, it remains unknown how manipulating task demands and other environmental factors influence visual search performance in this population. AIM We developed a novel and naturalistic virtual reality (VR) based static visual search task combined with eye tracking called the "virtual toy box" to objectively assess visual search performance in CVI. METHODS AND PROCEDURES A total of 38 individuals with CVI (mean age 13.18 years ± 3.58 SD) and 53 controls with neurotypical development (mean age 15.25 years ± 5.72 SD) participated in the study. In a first experiment, study subjects were instructed to search for a preselected toy presented among a varying number of surrounding distractor toys (set size ranging from 1 to 36 items). In a second experiment, we assessed the effects of manipulating item spacing and the size of the visual area explored (field of view; FOV). OUTCOMES AND RESULTS Behavioral outcomes collected were success rate, reaction time, gaze error, visual search area, and off-screen percent (an index of task compliance). Compared to age-matched controls, participants with CVI showed an overall impairment with respect to all the visual search outcomes of interest. Specifically, individuals with CVI were less likely and took longer to find the target, and search patterns were less accurate and precise compared to controls. Visual search response profiles were also comparatively less efficient and were associated with a slower initial pre-search (visual orienting) response as indexed by higher slope and intercept values derived from the analysis of reaction time × set size functions. Search performance was also more negatively affected in CVI at the smallest as well as largest spacing conditions tested, while increasing FOV was associated with greater decreased gaze accuracy and precision CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: These results are consistent with a general profile of impaired visual search abilities in CVI as well as worsening performance with increased visual task demands and an overall sensitivity to visual clutter and crowding. The observed profile of impaired visual search performance may be associated with dysfunctions related to how visual selective attention is deployed in individuals with CVI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhang
- The Laboratory for Visual Neuroplasticity, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Claire E Manley
- The Laboratory for Visual Neuroplasticity, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Serena Micheletti
- Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Isidora Tesic
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Christopher R Bennett
- The Laboratory for Visual Neuroplasticity, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Elisa M Fazzi
- Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, Brescia, Italy; Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Lotfi B Merabet
- The Laboratory for Visual Neuroplasticity, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA.
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Noritz G, Davidson L, Steingass K. Providing a Primary Care Medical Home for Children and Youth With Cerebral Palsy. Pediatrics 2022; 150:e2022060055. [PMID: 36404756 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2022-060055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common motor disorder of childhood, with prevalence estimates ranging from 1.5 to 4 in 1000 live births. This clinical report seeks to provide primary care physicians with guidance to detect children with CP; collaborate with specialists in treating the patient; manage associated medical, developmental, and behavioral problems; and provide general medical care to their patients with CP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Garey Noritz
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio; and
| | - Lynn Davidson
- The Children's Hospital at Montefiore, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, New York
| | - Katherine Steingass
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio; and
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Boonstra FN, Bosch DGM, Geldof CJA, Stellingwerf C, Porro G. The Multidisciplinary Guidelines for Diagnosis and Referral in Cerebral Visual Impairment. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 16:727565. [PMID: 35845239 PMCID: PMC9280621 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2022.727565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Cerebral visual impairment (CVI) is an important cause of visual impairment in western countries. Perinatal hypoxic-ischemic damage is the most frequent cause of CVI but CVI can also be the result of a genetic disorder. The majority of children with CVI have cerebral palsy and/or developmental delay. Early diagnosis is crucial; however, there is a need for consensus on evidence based diagnostic tools and referral criteria. The aim of this study is to develop guidelines for diagnosis and referral in CVI according to the grade method. Patients and Methods We developed the guidelines according to the GRADE method 5 searches on CVI (children, developmental age ≤ 18 years) were performed in the databases Medline, Embase, and Psychinfo, each with a distinct topic. Results Based on evidence articles were selected on five topics: 1. Medical history and CVI-questionnaires 23 (out of 1,007). 2. Ophthalmological and orthoptic assessment 37 (out of 816). 3. Neuropsychological assessment 5 (out of 716). 4. Neuroradiological evaluation and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) 9 (out of 723). 5. Genetic assessment 5 (out of 458). Conclusion In medical history taking, prematurity low birth weight and APGAR (Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity, Respiration) Scores (<5) are important. Different questionnaires are advised for children under the age of 3 years, older children and for specific risk groups (extremely preterm). In ophthalmological examination, eye movements, specially saccades, accommodation, crowding, contrast sensitivity and visual fields should be evaluated. OCT can show objective signs of trans-synaptic degeneration and abnormalities in fixation and saccades can be measured with eye tracking. Screening of visual perceptive functioning is recommended and can be directive for further assessment. MRI findings in CVI in Cerebral Palsy can be structured in five groups: Brain maldevelopment, white and gray matter lesions, postnatal lesions and a normal MRI. In children with CVI and periventricular leukomalacia, brain lesion severity correlates with visual function impairment. A differentiation can be made between cortical and subcortical damage and related visual function impairment. Additional assessments (neurological or genetic) can be necessary to complete the diagnosis of CVI and/or to reveal the etiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frouke N. Boonstra
- Royal Dutch Visio, National Foundation for the Visually Impaired and Blind, Huizen, Netherlands
- Department of Cognitive Neuroscience, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behavior, Radboud University Medical Centre Nijmegen, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Behavioral Science Institute, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: Frouke N. Boonstra,
| | | | - Christiaan J. A. Geldof
- Royal Dutch Visio, National Foundation for the Visually Impaired and Blind, Huizen, Netherlands
| | - Catharina Stellingwerf
- Royal Dutch Visio, National Foundation for the Visually Impaired and Blind, Huizen, Netherlands
| | - Giorgio Porro
- Department of Ophthalmology, UMC Utrecht and Amphia Hospital Breda, Breda, Netherlands
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Skirzewski M, Molotchnikoff S, Hernandez LF, Maya-Vetencourt JF. Multisensory Integration: Is Medial Prefrontal Cortex Signaling Relevant for the Treatment of Higher-Order Visual Dysfunctions? Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 14:806376. [PMID: 35110996 PMCID: PMC8801884 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2021.806376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
In the mammalian brain, information processing in sensory modalities and global mechanisms of multisensory integration facilitate perception. Emerging experimental evidence suggests that the contribution of multisensory integration to sensory perception is far more complex than previously expected. Here we revise how associative areas such as the prefrontal cortex, which receive and integrate inputs from diverse sensory modalities, can affect information processing in unisensory systems via processes of down-stream signaling. We focus our attention on the influence of the medial prefrontal cortex on the processing of information in the visual system and whether this phenomenon can be clinically used to treat higher-order visual dysfunctions. We propose that non-invasive and multisensory stimulation strategies such as environmental enrichment and/or attention-related tasks could be of clinical relevance to fight cerebral visual impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Skirzewski
- Rodent Cognition Research and Innovation Core, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Stéphane Molotchnikoff
- Département de Sciences Biologiques, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Département de Génie Electrique et Génie Informatique, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Luis F. Hernandez
- Knoebel Institute for Healthy Aging, University of Denver, Denver, CO, United States
| | - José Fernando Maya-Vetencourt
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
- Centre for Synaptic Neuroscience, Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT), Genova, Italy
- *Correspondence: José Fernando Maya-Vetencourt
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Sakki H, Dale NJ, Mankad K, Sargent J, Talenti G, Bowman R. Exploratory Investigation of Brain MRI Lesions According to Whole Sample and Visual Function Subtyping in Children With Cerebral Visual Impairment. Front Hum Neurosci 2022; 15:765371. [PMID: 35069150 PMCID: PMC8770951 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2021.765371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: There is limited research on brain lesions in children with cerebral visual impairment (CVI) of heterogeneous etiologies and according to associated subtyping and vision dysfunctions. This study was part of a larger project establishing data-driven subtypes of childhood CVI according to visual dysfunctions. Currently there is no consensus in relation to assessment, diagnosis and classification of CVI and more information about brain lesions may be of potential diagnostic value. Aim: This study aimed to investigate overall patterns of brain lesions and associations with level of visual dysfunction and to compare the patterns between the classification subgroups in children with CVI. Methods: School-aged children with CVI received ophthalmological and neuro-psychological/developmental assessments to establish CVI-related subtyping. Other pediatric information was collected from medical records. MRI scans were coded according to a semi-quantitative template including brain regions (right hemisphere, left hemisphere, visual pathways) and summed for total scores. Non-parametric analyses were conducted. Results: 28 children had clinical brain MRI scans available [44% of total sample, Group A (lower severity of visual dysfunctions) n = 16, Group B (higher severity) n = 12]. Total brain scores ranged between 0 and 18 (Group A mdn = 7, IQR = 0.8–10.0, Group B mdn = 10, IQR = 6.5–11.8) and were widespread across regions. 71 per cent had post-geniculate visual pathway damage. The median total brain and hemisphere scores of Group B were higher than subgroup A but differences did not reach statistical significance. No statistically significant associations were found between brain scores and vision variables (acuity, contrast sensitivity). Conclusion: This study found a spread of lesions across all regions on the brain scans in children with congenital CVI. The majority had damage in the postgeniculate visual pathways and visual cortex region suggesting this is an area of interest and potentially informative for diagnosis. However the subtyping classification did not show differences in number or region of lesions though the trend was higher toward Group B. This study confirms the complex diffuse and variable nature of brain lesions in children with congenital CVI, many of whom have other neurological impairments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna Sakki
- Developmental Neurosciences, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
| | - Naomi J. Dale
- Developmental Neurosciences, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
- Neurodisability Service, Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Naomi J. Dale,
| | - Kshitij Mankad
- Department of Radiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jenefer Sargent
- Neurodisability Service, Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Giacomo Talenti
- Department of Radiology, Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Bowman
- Developmental Neurosciences, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, London, United Kingdom
- Ophthalmology Department, Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom
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15
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Abstract
BACKGROUND To determine whether the vestibular-ocular reflexes (VORs) can be affected by central nervous system injury in children with cortical visual impairment (CVI). METHODS Retrospective case series. Twenty consecutive children with CVI who presented to a pediatric ophthalmology practice over an 18-month period were included in the study. Horizontal and vertical VORs were assessed by a pediatric neuro-ophthalmologist using the standard doll's head maneuver. MRI studies were independently reviewed by a pediatric neuroradiologist in a masked fashion. The main outcome measures were the integrity of the VORs and the presence of brainstem abnormalities on MRI. RESULTS VORs were found to be absent or severely impaired in 13/20 (65%) children with CVI. More surprisingly, the doll's head maneuver failed to substantially overcome the deviated eye position in 8/13 (62%) children with conjugate gaze deviations. Reduced brainstem size and signal abnormalities were found in 4/7 children with normal VORs and in 9/13 children with abnormal VORs (P = 0.6), showing noncorrelation with the integrity of the VOR. CONCLUSION VORs are commonly impaired in children with CVI. This ocular motor deficit reflects the diffuse cortical and subcortical injury that often accompanies perinatal injury to the developing brain. Consequently, these children may lack important visual compensatory mechanisms to stabilize gaze during head movements. This knowledge can help in planning visual rehabilitation.
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16
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Raja S, Emadi BS, Gaier ED, Gise RA, Fulton AB, Heidary G. Evaluation of the Relationship Between Preferential Looking Testing and Visual Evoked Potentials as a Biomarker of Cerebral Visual Impairment. Front Hum Neurosci 2021; 15:769259. [PMID: 34776912 PMCID: PMC8578861 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2021.769259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Cerebral visual impairment (CVI) is a leading cause of visual impairment in children in developed countries, but diagnostic tools to detect CVI are limited. We sought to analyze the visual acuity of children with CVI as assessed by visual evoked potentials (VEPs) and preferential looking test (PLT) to determine whether the relationship between the visual outcomes on these two testing methods may serve as a biomarker of CVI. We performed a retrospective chart review of patients with a confirmed diagnosis of CVI and at least one ophthalmological assessment with visual acuity measured by VEP and PLT. Of the 218 patients included in the study, the most common condition associated with CVI was an underlying genetic disorder (36%, 79/218). Treatment for seizures occurred in the majority of the entire cohort of patients (80%, 175/218). Ophthalmic comorbidities included retinal disease in 23 patients, optic nerve disease in 68 patients, nystagmus in 78 patients, and strabismus in 176 patients. When assessed by either VEP or PLT, visual acuity in children with CVI fell below expected norms. At initial and final presentations, VEP acuity exceeded PLT acuity by one or more octaves, and this difference was greater than expected compared with normal visual development. We propose utilizing this quantifiable disparity between VEP and PLT as a biomarker of CVI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sruti Raja
- Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, United States.,Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School and Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Batool Sahar Emadi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School and Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Eric D Gaier
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School and Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States.,Picower Institute for Learning and Memory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | - Ryan A Gise
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School and Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Anne B Fulton
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School and Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Gena Heidary
- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School and Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, United States
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17
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Chandna A, Ghahghaei S, Foster S, Kumar R. Higher Visual Function Deficits in Children With Cerebral Visual Impairment and Good Visual Acuity. Front Hum Neurosci 2021; 15:711873. [PMID: 34867236 PMCID: PMC8636735 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2021.711873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
In clinical practice Cerebral Visual Impairment (CVI) is typically diagnosed by observation of abnormal visually guided behaviors which indicate higher visual function deficits (HVFDs) suggesting abnormal brain development or brain damage in a child with a suitable clinical history. HVFDs can occur even in the presence of good visual acuity and may remain undiagnosed because the good visual acuity does not prompt further investigation. This leads to a lack of understanding of the child's visual perceptual difficulties. In a prospective study, we determined the spectrum of HVFDs in a group of children with history suggestive of brain damage or disruption of brain development and an independent diagnosis of CVI in comparison with typically developing children with a structured 51 question inventory, the Higher Visual Function Question Inventory (HVFQI-51) adapted from the Cerebral Vision Impairment Inventory, CVI-I. Here, we show that the HVFQI-51 can detect a range of HVFDs in children with CVI with good visual acuity and clearly distinguishes these children from typically developing children. HVFDs in our study group could mostly be attributed to dorsal stream visual processing dysfunction though the spectrum varied between children. We report on the inclusion of the "not applicable" response option in analysis providing a picture of HVFDs more in tune with the overall disability of each child. We also propose a subset of 11 questions (Top-11) which discriminate between children with CVI vs. behaviors seen in typical children: this provides both a potential screening tool for initial assessment of HVFDs and a measure of CVI-related impairment, and needs further validation in a secondary independent sample.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arvind Chandna
- The Smith-Kettlewell Eye Research Institute, San Francisco, CA, United States
- Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Saeideh Ghahghaei
- The Smith-Kettlewell Eye Research Institute, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Susan Foster
- Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Ram Kumar
- Alder Hey Children’s Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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18
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Chandna A, Nichiporuk N, Nicholas S, Kumar R, Norcia AM. Motion Processing Deficits in Children With Cerebral Visual Impairment and Good Visual Acuity. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2021; 62:12. [PMID: 34779820 PMCID: PMC8606874 DOI: 10.1167/iovs.62.14.12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose We sought to characterize neural motion processing deficits in children with cerebral visual impairment (CVI) who have good visual acuity using an objective, quantifiable method (steady-state visual evoked potentials [SSVEPs]). Methods We recorded SSVEPs in response to three types of visual motion – absolute motion and more complex relative and rotary motion, comparing them to form-related vernier and contour responses. We studied a group of 31 children with CVI diagnosed via detailed clinical examinations and 28 age-matched healthy controls. Results Using measurements made at the appropriate response harmonics of the stimulation frequency, we found significant deficits in cerebral processing of relative and rotary motion but not of absolute motion in children with CVI compared with healthy controls. Vernier acuity, in keeping with good recognition acuity in both groups, was not different, nor were contour-related form responses. Conclusions Deficits for complex motion but relative sparing of elementary motion and form-related signals suggests preferential damage to extra-striate visual motion areas in children with CVI. The fact that these preferential losses occur in the absence of significant acuity loss indicates that they are not secondary to reduced visual acuity, but rather are an independent vulnerability in CVI. These results corroborate parental and caregivers’ reports of difficulties with tasks that involve motion perception in children with CVI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arvind Chandna
- Smith-Kettlewell Eye Research Institute, San Francisco, California, United States.,Alder Hey Children's Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Nikolay Nichiporuk
- Smith-Kettlewell Eye Research Institute, San Francisco, California, United States
| | - Spero Nicholas
- Smith-Kettlewell Eye Research Institute, San Francisco, California, United States
| | - Ram Kumar
- Alder Hey Children's Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom
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19
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Fazzi E, Micheletti S, Calza S, Merabet L, Rossi A, Galli J. Early visual training and environmental adaptation for infants with visual impairment. Dev Med Child Neurol 2021; 63:1180-1193. [PMID: 34813110 PMCID: PMC8518055 DOI: 10.1111/dmcn.14865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
AIM To evaluate the effectiveness of early visual training and environmental adaptation on visual function and neurological development in infants with visual impairment. METHOD This was a pilot intervention clinical trial study. Thirty infants (mean age 5.9mo, SD 2.1mo, range 4-11mo; 16 males, 14 females) with peripheral visual impairment (PVI, n=15) or cerebral visual impairment (CVI, n=15) participated in a 6-month visual intervention programme. Thirty matched infants (mean age 6mo, SD 1.4mo, range 4-9mo; 18 males, 12 females) served as a comparison group. Primary outcome measures were visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and qualitative ocular motor functions. Secondary outcomes were scores on the Griffiths Mental Developmental Scales (GMDS). RESULTS The treatment group showed a significant improvement in all the primary outcomes (p<0.01). The comparison group improved only in visual acuity and contrast sensitivity (p<0.01). The treatment group showed greater improvement than the comparison group in visual fixation (p=0.033) and smooth pursuit (p<0.01). The CVI subgroup showed greater improvement in visual acuity than the PVI subgroup (p<0.01). GMDS subscales of hand-eye coordination (p=0.01) and performance (p<0.01) increased in the treatment group, while the total score of the comparison group decreased, driven by language (p=0.039) and hand-eye coordination (p=0.025) subscales. INTERPRETATION Results suggest that, in infants with visual impairment, visual function and certain developmental outcomes improve in response to early visual training and environmental adaptation, in an interactive context. What this paper adds Early visual training and environmental adaptation are associated with enhanced visual acuity and smooth pursuit. Early visual training and environmental adaptation are associated with an improvement of neurological developmental outcome. Performance, hand-eye coordination, and language scores in Griffiths Mental Developmental Scales increase after visual training. After training, visual acuity improves more in infants with cerebral rather than anterior visual impairment. Type and complexity of visual impairment contribute to determine infants' response to training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Fazzi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental SciencesUniversity of BresciaBresciaItaly,Unit of Child Neurology and PsychiatryASST Spedali Civili of BresciaBresciaItaly
| | - Serena Micheletti
- Unit of Child Neurology and PsychiatryASST Spedali Civili of BresciaBresciaItaly
| | - Stefano Calza
- Unit of Biostatistics and BioinformaticsDepartment of Molecular and Translational MedicineUniversity of BresciaBresciaItaly
| | - Lotfi Merabet
- The Laboratory for Visual NeuroplasticityDepartment of OphthalmologyMassachusetts Eye and EarHarvard Medical SchoolBostonMAUSA
| | - Andrea Rossi
- Unit of Child Neurology and PsychiatryASST Spedali Civili of BresciaBresciaItaly
| | - Jessica Galli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental SciencesUniversity of BresciaBresciaItaly,Unit of Child Neurology and PsychiatryASST Spedali Civili of BresciaBresciaItaly
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20
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Rice ML, Sandoval MA, Castleberry KM, Schwartz TL. Physician Prescribing and Referral Patterns in Children with Cerebral Visual Impairment. Optom Vis Sci 2021; 98:1078-1084. [PMID: 34524214 DOI: 10.1097/opx.0000000000001775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
SIGNIFICANCE Cerebral visual impairment (CVI) is the leading cause of visual impairment in the developed world. Providing children with CVI with the appropriate treatment ensures the best possible visual outcome and potentially improves quality of life. PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to determine physician prescribing and visual rehabilitation referral patterns in children with CVI. METHODS A retrospective chart review was completed on children with CVI examined at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center from January 1, 2008, to March 1, 2018. Significant refractive error warranting correction was determined using the American Academy of Ophthalmology Preferred Guidelines and the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus Vision Screening Committee Guidelines. The CVI Range was used as a surrogate to categorize CVI severity. RESULTS A total of 194 children were included. Sixty-eight (35%) had refractive error warranting correction and were prescribed glasses (group RC), 99 (51%) did not have refractive error warranting correction and were not prescribed glasses (group NRNC), 20 (10%) had refractive error warranting correction but were not prescribed glasses (group RNC), and 7 (4%) did not have refractive error warranting correction but were prescribed glasses (group NRC). There was greater than one-line Snellen equivalent difference between group RC (20/156) and group RNC (20/221). There was greater than six-line Snellen equivalent difference between group NRNC (20/149) and group NRC (20/35). Mean CVI Range score 2 values for each group were 5.9, 4.6, 4.8, and 7.1. CONCLUSIONS Children with less severe CVI were less likely to have significant refractive error but given glasses. Despite significant refractive error, children with more severe CVI were not prescribed glasses. Children with very low visual function were not prescribed glasses as frequently, possibly limiting their visual rehabilitation. Providers should ensure that all children with CVI are correctly prescribed glasses to provide the best possible visual outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Monica A Sandoval
- Division of Pediatric Ophthalmology/Abrahamson Pediatric Eye Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Katherine M Castleberry
- Division of Pediatric Ophthalmology/Abrahamson Pediatric Eye Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
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21
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Acquired visual agnosia as an uncommon presentation of epileptic encephalopathy in a 6-year-old boy with CSWS. Epilepsy Behav Rep 2021; 16:100465. [PMID: 34258574 PMCID: PMC8253950 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebr.2021.100465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2021] [Revised: 06/05/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Acquired visual agnosia is an underrecognized and rare manifestation of CSWS. Highly specific spared and affected areas of visual performance may be seen. Methylprednisolone was found most effective to treat cognitive symptoms. Recovery on EEG (SWI) and neuropsychological results showed partial synchronicity. SWI is likely not the only neurophysiological marker of epileptic encephalopathy.
Background Acquired visual agnosia in the context of continuous spikes and waves during slow sleep (CSWS) is rarely described. We present a case of an almost 7-year-old boy who lost his ability to name pictures and recognize familiar faces. Initial encephalography (EEG) revealed sleep induced epileptiform activity with a spike-wave index (SWI) of 100%, predominanting in the left posterior head region. Methods Serial neuropsychological testing with concomitant EEG was done during the first 18 months of treatment with intravenous methylprednisolone. We administered intelligence scales, verbal tasks (memory, fluency), visual tasks (drawings, search, face recognition), and tasks requiring visual-verbal integration (picture naming, visual closure). Analyses Neuropsychological recovery studied with reliable cognitive change cut-offs and 95% confidence intervals. Results With treatment, there was an improvement of the EEG pattern (SWI reduction to 45%), followed by a relapse (SWI 82%). Neuropsychological measures in part synchronized with improvement, stability, and fluctuating values. Significant increases were seen on Verbal Comprehension Index and semantic memory. Visual Spatial Index remained unchanged (67 to 73). Naming pictures showed only limited change. Interpreting degraded pictures remained extremely difficult. Discussion Acquired visual agnosia may be seen in children with CSWS. Early recognition, prompt accurate treatment and tailored neuropsychological assessment remain crucial.
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22
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Ben Itzhak N, Vancleef K, Franki I, Laenen A, Wagemans J, Ortibus E. Quantifying visuoperceptual profiles of children with cerebral visual impairment. Child Neuropsychol 2021; 27:995-1023. [PMID: 33944679 DOI: 10.1080/09297049.2021.1915265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The aim was to develop a visuoperceptual profile schema reflecting visuoperceptual strengths and weaknesses, using neuropsychological tests. Secondly, this schema was used to quantify individual visuoperceptual profiles of children with and without cerebral visual impairment (CVI), and to identify differences in their profiles. Clinical records (2001-2018) of 630 children (386 males, 244 females; median age 77 months; interquartile range 63-98 months) suspected for CVI were reviewed. Neurological history, visuoperceptual results, ophthalmological, and neuroimaging data were retrieved. To develop the visuoperceptual schema, exploratory factor analyses (EFAs) were performed, followed by a Delphi study. In individual interviews, six experts were asked to "name the different visuoperceptual dimensions" and "what visuoperceptual dimensions are targeted by each of the 24 visuoperceptual subtests." To reach consensus, two questionnaire rounds (44 statements and 20 statements, respectively, five experts) followed. EFAs showed clinically uninterpretable results. The Delphi study revealed seven visuoperceptual dimensions; (1) visual discrimination and matching, (2) object or picture recognition, (3) visual spatial perception, (4) figure-ground perception, (5) motion perception, (6) visual short-term memory, and (7) scene perception. The most discriminating dimensions between CVI and no CVI were object/picture recognition (r = 0.56), visual spatial perception (r = 0.52), visual discrimination and matching (r = 0.47), and figure-ground perception (r = 0.39). Motion perception and visual short-term memory (both r = 0.22) were less discriminating. Two case studies illustrate how to apply the visuoperceptual schema to characterize dysfunction and intact functions. Visuoperceptual profiling can serve as a basis for individualized therapies in heterogeneous disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nofar Ben Itzhak
- Department of Development and Regeneration, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kathleen Vancleef
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Inge Franki
- Department of Development and Regeneration, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Leuven, Belgium
| | - Annouschka Laenen
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leuven Biostatistics and Statistical Bioinformatics Centre (L-biostat), Leuven, Belgium
| | - Johan Wagemans
- Department of Brain & Cognition, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Leuven, Belgium
| | - Els Ortibus
- Department of Development and Regeneration, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Leuven, Belgium
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23
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Bhat A, Biagi L, Cioni G, Tinelli F, Morrone MC. Cortical thickness of primary visual cortex correlates with motion deficits in periventricular leukomalacia. Neuropsychologia 2020; 151:107717. [PMID: 33333138 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropsychologia.2020.107717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Impairments of visual motion perception and, in particular, of flow motion have been consistently observed in premature and very low birth weight subjects during infancy. Flow motion information is analyzed at various cortical levels along the dorsal pathways, with information mainly provided by primary and early visual cortex (V1, V2 and V3). We investigated the cortical stage of the visual processing that underlies these motion impairments, measuring Grey Matter Volume and Cortical Thickness in 13 children with Periventricular Leukomalacia (PVL). The cortical thickness, but not the grey matter volume of area V1, correlates negatively with motion coherence sensitivity, indicating that the thinner the cortex, the better the performance among the patients. However, we did not find any such association with either the thickness or volume of area MT, MST and areas of the IPS, suggesting damage at the level of primary visual cortex or along the optic radiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshatha Bhat
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Laboratory of Vision, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, Pisa, Italy; Department of Neuroscience, University of Florence, Italy
| | - Laura Biagi
- Laboratory of Medical Physics and Magnetic Resonance, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, Pisa, Italy
| | - Giovanni Cioni
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Laboratory of Vision, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, Pisa, Italy; Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Tinelli
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Laboratory of Vision, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, Pisa, Italy
| | - M Concetta Morrone
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, Laboratory of Vision, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, Pisa, Italy; Department of Translational Research on New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Italy.
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24
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Kovarski K, Caetta F, Mermillod M, Peyrin C, Perez C, Granjon L, Delorme R, Cartigny A, Zalla T, Chokron S. Emotional face recognition in autism and in cerebral visual impairments: In search for specificity. J Neuropsychol 2020; 15:235-252. [PMID: 32920927 DOI: 10.1111/jnp.12221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by difficulties in the social domain, but also by hyper- and hypo-reactivity. Atypical visual behaviours and processing have often been observed. Nevertheless, several similar signs are also identified in other clinical conditions including cerebral visual impairments (CVI). In the present study, we investigated emotional face categorization in groups of children with ASD and CVI by comparing each group to typically developing individuals (TD) in two tasks. Stimuli were either non-filtered or filtered by low- and high-spatial frequencies (LSF and HSF). All participants completed the autism spectrum quotient score (AQ) and a complete neurovisual evaluation. The results show that while both clinical groups presented difficulties in the emotional face recognition tasks and atypical processing of filtered stimuli, they did not differ from one another. Additionally, autistic traits were observed in the CVI group and symmetrically, some visual disturbances were present in the ASD group as measured via the AQ score and a neurovisual evaluation, respectively. The present study suggests the relevance of comparing ASD to CVI by showing that emotional face categorization difficulties should not be solely considered as autism-specific but merit investigation for potential dysfunction of the visual processing neural network. These results are of interest in both clinical and research perspectives, indicating that systematic visual examination is warranted for individuals with ASD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klara Kovarski
- Institut de Neuropsychologie, Neurovision et Neurocognition, Hôpital Fondation Rothschild, Paris, France.,Université de Paris, CNRS, Integrative Neuroscience and Cognition Center, Paris, France, Paris, France
| | - Florent Caetta
- Institut de Neuropsychologie, Neurovision et Neurocognition, Hôpital Fondation Rothschild, Paris, France
| | - Martial Mermillod
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Univ. Savoie Mont Blanc, CNRS, LPNC, Grenoble, France
| | - Carole Peyrin
- Univ. Grenoble Alpes, Univ. Savoie Mont Blanc, CNRS, LPNC, Grenoble, France
| | - Céline Perez
- Institut de Neuropsychologie, Neurovision et Neurocognition, Hôpital Fondation Rothschild, Paris, France
| | - Lionel Granjon
- Université de Paris, CNRS, Integrative Neuroscience and Cognition Center, Paris, France, Paris, France
| | - Richard Delorme
- Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Robert Debré Hospital, Paris, France
| | - Ariane Cartigny
- Institut de Neuropsychologie, Neurovision et Neurocognition, Hôpital Fondation Rothschild, Paris, France.,Université de Paris, CNRS, Integrative Neuroscience and Cognition Center, Paris, France, Paris, France
| | - Tiziana Zalla
- Institut Jean Nicod, CNRS, Ecole Normale Supérieure, Paris, France
| | - Sylvie Chokron
- Institut de Neuropsychologie, Neurovision et Neurocognition, Hôpital Fondation Rothschild, Paris, France.,Université de Paris, CNRS, Integrative Neuroscience and Cognition Center, Paris, France, Paris, France
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25
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Molinaro A, Micheletti S, Rossi A, Gitti F, Galli J, Merabet LB, Fazzi EM. Autistic-Like Features in Visually Impaired Children: A Review of Literature and Directions for Future Research. Brain Sci 2020; 10:E507. [PMID: 32752249 PMCID: PMC7465914 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci10080507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There remains great interest in understanding the relationship between visual impairment (VI) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) due to the extraordinarily high prevalence of ASD in blind and visually impaired children. The broad variability across individuals and assessment methodologies have made it difficult to understand whether autistic-like symptoms shown by some children with VI might reflect the influence of the visual deficit, or represent a primary neurodevelopmental condition that occurs independently of the VI itself. In the absence of a valid methodology adapted for the visually impaired population, diagnosis of ASD in children with VI is often based on non-objective clinical impression, with inconclusive prevalence data. In this review, we discuss the current state of knowledge and suggest directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Molinaro
- Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, 25121 Brescia, Italy
| | - Serena Micheletti
- Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, 25121 Brescia, Italy
| | - Andrea Rossi
- Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, 25121 Brescia, Italy
| | - Filippo Gitti
- Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, 25121 Brescia, Italy
| | - Jessica Galli
- Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, 25121 Brescia, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, 25121 Brescia, Italy
| | - Lotfi B Merabet
- Laboratory for Visual Neuroplasticity, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Elisa Maria Fazzi
- Unit of Child Neurology and Psychiatry, ASST Spedali Civili of Brescia, 25121 Brescia, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Brescia, 25121 Brescia, Italy
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Philip SS, Guzzetta A, Chorna O, Gole G, Boyd RN. Relationship between brain structure and Cerebral Visual Impairment in children with Cerebral Palsy: A systematic review. RESEARCH IN DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2020; 99:103580. [PMID: 32004872 DOI: 10.1016/j.ridd.2020.103580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cerebral Visual Impairment (CVI) is very common yet often unrecognised visual dysfunction in children with Cerebral Palsy (CP). Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is the diagnostic tool in the investigation of brain lesions in children with CP and CVI. AIM The aim of this systematic review is to evaluate the relationship between brain structure and CVI, as determined by MRI in children with CP. METHODS AND PROCEDURES A comprehensive search of 5 database (PubMed, EMBASE, SCOPUS, CINAHL and Cochrane Database) was undertaken up until June 2019. The PRISMA checklist was then utilised to report on the process of selecting eligible papers. A total of 30 observational studies met the full inclusion criteria. Further, STROBE checklist was employed to report on the observational studies. OUTCOMES AND RESULTS Periventricular leucomalacia on MRI was found to have a strong association with CVI in all 30 studies. Only 13 (43 %) studies described dorsal and/ ventral stream dysfunction. There was ambiguity in the definition of CVI. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS The overall level of evidence correlating different patterns of CVI and CP (based on GMFCS, motor type and distribution) and MRI was low. Further studies utilising advances in MRI are needed to understand brain reorganisation and patterns of CVI and suggest rehabilitation therapy inclusive of vision.
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Affiliation(s)
- Swetha Sara Philip
- The University of Queensland, Queensland Cerebral Palsy and Rehabilitation Research Centre, Centre for Children's Health Research, Brisbane, Australia.
| | - Andrea Guzzetta
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy; Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, Pisa, Italy
| | - Olena Chorna
- Department of Developmental Neuroscience, IRCCS Fondazione Stella Maris, Pisa, Italy
| | - Glen Gole
- Dept of Ophthalmology, Queensland Children's Hospital, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Roslyn N Boyd
- The University of Queensland, Queensland Cerebral Palsy and Rehabilitation Research Centre, Centre for Children's Health Research, Brisbane, Australia
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Bennett CR, Bauer CM, Bailin ES, Merabet LB. Neuroplasticity in cerebral visual impairment (CVI): Assessing functional vision and the neurophysiological correlates of dorsal stream dysfunction. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 108:171-181. [PMID: 31655075 PMCID: PMC6949360 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2019.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2019] [Revised: 10/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Cerebral visual impairment (CVI) results from perinatal injury to visual processing structures and pathways and is the most common individual cause of pediatric visual impairment and blindness in developed countries. While there is mounting evidence demonstrating extensive neuroplastic reorganization in early onset, profound ocular blindness, how the brain reorganizes in the setting of congenital damage to cerebral (i.e. retro-geniculate) visual pathways remains comparatively poorly understood. Individuals with CVI exhibit a wide range of visual deficits and, in particular, present with impairments of higher order visual spatial processing (referred to as "dorsal stream dysfunction") as well as object recognition (associated with processing along the ventral stream). In this review, we discuss the need for ongoing work to develop novel, neuroscience-inspired approaches to investigate functional visual deficits in this population. We also outline the role played by advanced structural and functional neuroimaging in helping to elucidate the underlying neurophysiology of CVI, and highlight key differences with regard to patterns of neural reorganization previously described in ocular blindness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher R Bennett
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA 02114, United States
| | - Corinna M Bauer
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA 02114, United States
| | - Emma S Bailin
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA 02114, United States
| | - Lotfi B Merabet
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School, 20 Staniford Street, Boston, MA 02114, United States.
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Bennett CR, Bex PJ, Bauer CM, Merabet LB. The Assessment of Visual Function and Functional Vision. Semin Pediatr Neurol 2019; 31:30-40. [PMID: 31548022 PMCID: PMC6761988 DOI: 10.1016/j.spen.2019.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The complete assessment of vision-related abilities should consider visual function (the performance of components of the visual system) and functional vision (visual task-related ability). Assessment methods are highly dependent upon individual characteristics (eg, the presence and type of visual impairment). Typical visual function tests assess factors such as visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, color, depth, and motion perception. These properties each represent an aspect of visual function and may impact an individual's level of functional vision. The goal of any functional vision assessment should be to measure the visual task-related ability under real-world scenarios. Recent technological advancements such as virtual reality can provide new opportunities to improve traditional vision assessments by providing novel objective and ecologically valid measurements of performance, and allowing for the investigation of their neural basis. In this review, visual function and functional vision evaluation approaches are discussed in the context of traditional and novel acquisition methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher R Bennett
- The Laboratory for Visual Neuroplasticity, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Peter J Bex
- Translational Vision Lab, Department of Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, MA
| | - Corinna M Bauer
- The Laboratory for Visual Neuroplasticity, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
| | - Lotfi B Merabet
- The Laboratory for Visual Neuroplasticity, Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA.
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Kooiker MJG, Swarte RMC, Smit LS, Reiss IKM. Perinatal risk factors for visuospatial attention and processing dysfunctions at 1 year of age in children born between 26 and 32 weeks. Early Hum Dev 2019; 130:71-79. [PMID: 30703620 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2019.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2018] [Revised: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 01/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children born preterm are at risk of visuospatial attention orienting and processing dysfunctions, which can be quantified early in life using visually-guided eye movement responses. AIMS To identify the prevalence and perinatal risk factors for visuospatial attention orienting and processing dysfunctions in children born preterm of 1 year of corrected age (CA). STUDY DESIGN 123 children born between 26 and 33 weeks of gestation underwent a nonverbal visuospatial test at 1y CA, using an eye tracking-based paradigm. For the detected high-salient (cartoon and contrast), intermediate-salient (form and motion) and low-salient (color) stimuli, we quantified the reaction time to fixation (RTF). RTFs were compared to normative references from an age-matched control group (N = 38). The prevalence of perinatal risk factors (gestational age and weight, indices of neurological damage, overal sickness, respiratory failure, and retinopathy) was compared between the groups with normal and delayed RTFs. RESULTS At 1y CA, the preterm group had 7-20% less detected stimuli than the control group, particularly for intermediate and low-salient stimuli. Compared to normative RTFs, modest delays were found for high-salient cartoon (in 19% of preterm children) and contrast (8%), intermediate-salient motion (23%) and form (21%), and low-salient color stimuli (8%). These children had a significantly higher prevalence of perinatal risk factors for respiratory failure and intraventricular hemorrhages. CONCLUSIONS Children born between 26 and 32 weeks have a modest risk (8-23%) of visuospatial attention and processing dysfunction. This warrants early monitoring and support of general visual development in preterm children at risk of respiratory distress and disrupted cerebral blood flow.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J G Kooiker
- Vestibular and Oculomotor Research Group, Department of Neuroscience, Erasmus MC, PO Box 2040, 3000 CA Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - R M C Swarte
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Erasmus MC - Sophia Children's Hospital, PO Box 2060, 3000 CB Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - L S Smit
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Erasmus MC - Sophia Children's Hospital, PO Box 2060, 3000 CB Rotterdam, the Netherlands; Department of Neurology, Division of Pediatric Neurology, Erasmus MC - Sophia Children's Hospital, PO Box 2060, 3000 CB Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - I K M Reiss
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Erasmus MC - Sophia Children's Hospital, PO Box 2060, 3000 CB Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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Virtual Reality Based Assessment of Static Object Visual Search in Ocular Compared to Cerebral Visual Impairment. UNIVERSAL ACCESS IN HUMAN-COMPUTER INTERACTION. VIRTUAL, AUGMENTED, AND INTELLIGENT ENVIRONMENTS 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-92052-8_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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