Developmental Disorders and Cerebral Visual Impairment

Background/Purpose: Cerebral visual impairment is a frequently observed co-morbidity of several neurobiological caused disorders of the development.

Methods: Using a detailed literature review developmental disorders, genetic syndromes, prematurity, neonatal asphyxia, and brain maturation disorders are evaluated in respect of frequency and functional relevance of associated cerebral visual impairment.

Results: Children suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, autism, William-Beuren syndrome, neurofibromatosis type I, or cerebral palsy have in a substantial number of cases neuro-psychological detectable, as well as clinical relevant features of cerebral visual impairment. These dysfunctions are caused by a genetic determined or acquired lesion in the broad neuronal network of central visual processing including ventral as well as dorsal stream.

Conclusion: A comprehensively diagnostic workup of the visual processing is recommended in all children with acquired or constitutional developmental disorders, creating a complete understanding of the developmental problems as well as planning therapeutic interventions and special education programs.