Charles Bonnet syndrome: three cases in the emergency department.
BACKGROUND
Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS) is a cause of visual hallucinations in elderly patients that is often unrecognized by emergency physicians and has a relatively benign course. As the population ages, it is likely that the number of cases of CBS will increase (and thus, the numbers of those who present to an Emergency Department [ED] will be increasing).


OBJECTIVE
The case reports presented in this article will facilitate the recognition of CBS by the emergency physician.


METHODS
We describe 3 patients who presented to one ED for visual disturbances and were diagnosed with CBS in a 4-month time period.


CONCLUSIONS
Recognition of this unusual but stereotypical cause of visual disturbances facilitates an accurate diagnosis, and spares patients the time and expense of blood testing, imaging, and consultations. If emergency physicians begin to recognize this benign entity, we can provide improved (and safer) patient care with appropriate ED interventions.
Frost
Elizabeth J
EJ
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, USA.
Mottley
J Lawrence
JL
Edlow
Jonathan A
JA
D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D004636:Emergency Service, Hospital; D005260:Female; D006212:Hallucinations / Q000209:etiology*; D006801:Humans; D013577:Syndrome; D014786:Vision Disorders / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis*