Conversion Disorder Presenting with Unilateral Photophobia and Vision Loss.

Background: Conversion disorder is a rare condition and consequently is often misdiagnosed. Patients suffer from neurological symptoms in the absence of an organic cause. Symptoms arise in response to a stressful or traumatic situation affecting the patient's mental health which converts to a physic...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Publicado en:Optometry & Visual Performance Vol. 3; no. 3; pp. 151 - 158
Autores principales: Chang, Amy, Bateman, Jennifer, Capó-Aponte, José E.
Formato: case study pictorial tables/charts Journal Article
Publicado: Optometric Extension Program Jun2015
Acceso en línea:Ver este registro en EBSCOhost
Descripción
Sumario:Background: Conversion disorder is a rare condition and consequently is often misdiagnosed. Patients suffer from neurological symptoms in the absence of an organic cause. Symptoms arise in response to a stressful or traumatic situation affecting the patient's mental health which converts to a physical problem. Although it is a psychiatric condition, conversion disorder typically affects motor or sensory systems. Case Report: This report describes a 38-year-old military female presenting with unilateral photophobia and vision loss resulting from a traumatic combat experience. The diagnosis of conversion disorder was made after ruling out organic causes (e.g., ocular, visual, neurological) and extensive history and health record review. Conclusion: Conversion disorder should be considered in patients with a sensory visual deficit in the absence of an organic cause. A thorough review of the patient's psychological history is important when dealing with unexplained sensory deficits.