Nonorganic Ophthalmic Conditions in Children

Nonorganic neuro-ophthalmic disorders present with visual or ocular motor symptoms that are incompatible with a causal organic pathophysiology. This review summarizes modern terminology, clinical presentation, prognosis, and epidemiology of these conditions. This review also proposes a stepwise approach for managing nonorganic ophthalmic conditions in children and adolescents. Recommendations are offered to help clinicians perform a complete ophthalmological examination, identify the functional consequences of the disorder, briefly evaluate the psychosocial context, present the diagnosis, and offer education about the condition. The importance of multidisciplinary collaboration is emphasized in more complex cases. Practical recommendations are offered to facilitate collaboration with mental health professionals and to support the rehabilitation process. This review also offers recommendations to help clinicians communicate with patients and families.