(Image Credit: AdobeStock/leestat)
A recent press release from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) has announced significant findings from its scientific team regarding brain-based visual impairment in children. Cerebral or cortical visual impairment (CVI) has been identified as a leading contributor to vision impairment manifesting during childhood not only throughout the United States but also in various industrialized nations, according to the comprehensive press statement.
The findings, meticulously compiled from evidence and expert insights, have been published in the prestigious journal Ophthalmology, accompanied by an insightful editorial commentary.
Lotfi B. Merabet, OD, PhD, emphasized the challenges associated with CVI, stating, “Lack of awareness about CVI is a large factor leading to it being misdiagnosed or undiagnosed, which can mean years of frustration for children and parents.” He serves as a co-author of the report and holds the position of associate professor of ophthalmology at Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Harvard Medical School in Boston.
5 elements identified
The research team pinpointed five critical elements relevant to understanding CVI: the role of brain involvement, the presence of visual dysfunction that is more severe than would be suggested by standard eye examinations, and distinct types of visual deficits that may occur. Additionally, the importance of recognizing overlapping neurological disorders and the fact that CVI is often overlooked were highlighted as significant challenges in effective diagnosis.
Melinda Y. Chang, MD, advocated for increased awareness surrounding CVI: “Clarifying the factors for suspecting CVI should help build awareness and help eye care providers identify children for further assessment.” She is a co-author of the report and serves as an assistant professor of clinical ophthalmology at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles.
The National Eye Institute (NEI) is leading efforts to create a comprehensive registry aimed at collecting crucial data from individuals affected by CVI. This substantial database will enable researchers to study the broad spectrum of symptoms and signs associated with CVI, facilitating the definition of best practices for both diagnosis and rehabilitation. For more details, visit the NIH CVI Registry webpage.
Additionally, the press release elaborated that the definition report for CVI is grounded in a collaborative workshop organized by the NEI, in conjunction with the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development and the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. A complementary resource developed by the American Academy of Pediatrics was also released to assist pediatricians in recognizing CVI and has been published in Pediatrics.
“Significant work remains to be done to optimize diagnostic approaches and multidisciplinary rehabilitation strategies to improve quality of life for people with CVI, which is why it is a priority in our strategic plan,” stated Michael F. Chiang, MD, who serves as the director of the NEI.
References
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Chang MY, Merabet LB; CVI Working Group. Special Commentary: Cerebral/Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI) Working Definition: A report from the National Institutes of Health CVI Workshop. Ophthalmology 2024;131:1359-1365. https://www.aaojournal.org/article/S0161-6420(24)00565-7/fulltext(link is external)
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Gordon S, Kerr A, Wiggs C, et al. Editorial: What is Cerebral/Cortical Visual Impairment and Why Do We Need a New Definition? Ophthalmology 2024;131:1357-1358. https://www.aaojournal.org/article/S0161-6420(24)00559-1/fulltext(link is external)
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Lehman SS, Yin L, Chang MY; American Academy of Pediatrics, Section on Ophthalmology, Council on Children With Disabilities; American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus; American Academy of Ophthalmology; American Association of Certified Orthoptists. Diagnosis and care of children with cerebral/cortical visual impairment: Clinical report. Pediatrics. 2024;154(6):e2024068465. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2024-068465(link is external)
The Shocking Truth About Cerebral Visual Impairment: What You Need to Know!
Well, buckle up, my friends, because we’re diving into an eye-opening—ahem—vision-impairing topic that’s not just a blip on the radar; it’s a serious issue affecting many children in the good ol’ US of A and beyond. Yes, we’re talking about Cerebral or Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI). Spoiler alert: It’s more common than you think, and the lack of awareness surrounding it could mean the difference between a child seeing the world or missing out on those beautiful rainbows. And we know how much kids love rainbows! Or is that just the skittles talking?
A Little Background, Please!
According to a snazzy press release from the NIH, CVI has emerged as a leading cause of vision impairment in children. Now, before you roll your eyes and dismiss it like a bad dad joke, think about it: parents and kids going years without even knowing there’s an underlying vision issue? That’s like wearing glasses only to find out they have fake lenses! Dr. Lotfi B. Merabet, one of the big brains behind this report and an associate professor at Harvard, points out that “lack of awareness about CVI is a large factor leading to it being misdiagnosed or undiagnosed.”
Let’s Break It Down: The Five Elements of CVI
Now, you might be wondering, “What the heck does CVI involve?” Well, hold onto your hats, folks, as we unmask these five crucial elements:
- Brain Involvement: Yes, the brain gets a starring role here. Who knew it could cause mischief in the vision department?
- Visual Dysfunction Greater Than Expected: Picture this: a child has 20/20 vision according to the eye exam, but they still can’t recognize their own mum. A bit awkward, eh?
- Types of Visual Deficits: It’s a buffet of visual problems, but not the good kind where you can pile on the desserts.
- Distinguishing Overlapping Neurological Disorders: Because if there’s one thing we need, it’s to make this diagnosis as complicated as possible!
- CVI is Easily Missed: Like the last slice of pizza at a party. Trust me, it’s out there but you might never see it!
Calling All Eyecare Providers!
Dr. Melinda Y. Chang, another co-author of the report, is on a mission here: “Clarifying the factors for suspecting CVI should help build awareness.” In layman’s terms, let’s make sure those eye doctors are actually seeing more than just eyeballs. Early detection could mean the difference between stumbling through life in a fog and enjoying the view!
Data Lovers, Rejoice!
And here’s where it gets even better: The National Eye Institute (NEI) is getting its act together to develop a registry to collect data about CVI. It’s like social media for nerds, but with more charts and less selfies! Researchers will have access to this treasure trove of information to study the full spectrum of CVI signs and symptoms. The more we know, the better we heal—now, that deserves a standing ovation!
Great Minds Collaborate!
Let’s not forget the workshop that sparked this whole revelation. It was organized by the NEI alongside the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development and the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. It’s like a brainy Avengers team, but instead of saving the universe, they’re focused on saving our children’s eyesight. Less capes, more capillaries!
What Comes Next?
Apparently, the powers that be (read: doctors and researchers) are doing significant work to optimize diagnostic approaches and rehabilitation strategies. Dr. Michael F. Chiang, director of NEI, knows how crucial this is and has labeled it a “priority in our strategic plan.” A strategic plan for eyes? Now that’s foresight!
In Conclusion
So there you have it, folks! CVI isn’t just a fancy acronym; it’s a reality for many kids who deserve better awareness and support. The next time you see a child wandering but seeming lost—like me on a Saturday night—remember that a little knowledge could go a long way. Let’s get the word out, raise awareness, and maybe even save a few visual experiences along the way. Because who wouldn’t want to see the world in all its colorful glory?
For more riveting reads on CVI and all things vision-related, hop on over to the NIH CVI Registry webpage. Now, go on and share this article like it’s the last donut at the office party!
In this playful presentation, I maintained the sharp wit of Carr, the observational humor of Gervais, the physical comedy essence of Evans, and the quirky charm of Atkinson, all while effectively communicating the seriousness of CVI awareness!
How can increased awareness and resources for CVI improve access to necessary support for affected children and their families?
T’s not just one organization taking on the CVI challenge—it’s a grand collaboration! The NEI has teamed up with heavy hitters like the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development and the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Together, they’re working on defining best practices for diagnosing and rehabilitating those with CVI. Imagine a world where every child can access the help they need to fully experience the beauty around them!
Wrapping It Up
With the ongoing efforts from researchers, eye care professionals, and institutions like the NEI, we’re gearing up for a future where CVI is understood, recognized, and treated effectively. So, let’s spread the word about this often-overlooked issue—because every child deserves the chance to see the world clearly, or at least enjoy that last slice of pizza without confusion!
For more information, check out the NIH CVI Registry webpage to stay updated on developments in CVI research and resources. Your awareness could be the catalyst for change!
