Functional vision loss.
BACKGROUND
Functional vision loss (FVL) is a condition whereby a patient experiences a visual deficit without an organic or sensory basis. FVL is a diagnosis of exclusion, made only after organic pathology and sensory problems have been ruled out.


METHODS
The authors reviewed the literature on FVL, delineated the etiologies and applied their clinical experience to the subject to provide the reader with a clinical appreciation and practical approach to FVL. This includes diagnostic strategies and etiology-based management.


RESULTS
There are numerous sociopsychological etiologies of FVL of which the optometrist should be aware. Since FVL is a non-organic condition, the optimal treatment is usually multi-disciplinary, including a range of providers.


CONCLUSIONS
The authors present an overview of FVL, classification of etiology, a diagnostic strategy, comanagement recommendations, and case reports.
Hoffman
D J
DJ
Wilson
R
R
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008306:Malingering / Q000150:complications; D008875:Middle Aged; D011602:Psychophysiologic Disorders / Q000150:complications; D014786:Vision Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy