Toward Removing Barriers in the Evaluation, Diagnosis, and Care of Individuals With Cerebral Visual Impairments

Abstract

Cerebral visual impairment (CVI) is a leading cause of pediatric visual impairment worldwide. Despite the ramifications on multiple developmental domains and quality of life factors, substantial barriers remain for evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, and education of this growing population of children and adults. At the root is a lack of consensus on the definition and diagnostic criteria of CVI and a narrow ocular/acuity-based classification of visual impairment. This article covers four main issues that need to be urgently addressed to make strides toward removing current barriers. These challenges highlight the need for policy change at multiple levels to help ensure that individuals with CVI will have access to appropriate (re)habilitation and education services regardless of their acuity or visual function. Suggested solutions include the implementation of a globally accepted definition of CVI and increased multidisciplinary training programs. These will support international efforts to develop and implement quantitative interdisciplinary assessment methods, identify meaningful and effective intervention approaches, and monitor long-term outcomes for those with CVI. Additionally, sensitive and specific markers can be identified for differentiating CVI from other related developmental conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder and developmental coordination disorder. Ultimately, these proposed changes will lead toward improved quality of life for individuals with CVI and their caregivers.