Cortical visual impairment

A neurological form of visual impairment caused by damage or atypical structures in the visual pathways and visual processing centres of the brain, rather than in the eyes themselves. CVI is now the most common cause of visual impairment in children in developed countries. Unlike ocular visual impairments, eye examinations may appear normal while visual functioning is significantly affected. CVI is characterised by ten visual and behavioural traits identified by Christine Roman-Lantzy, including colour preference, difficulty with visual complexity, visual latency, visual field preferences, and difficulty with visual novelty. Because CVI is brain-based, interventions focus on adapting visual environments — reducing clutter, using preferred colours, providing movement to attract attention, and allowing extended processing time — rather than relying on assistive technologies designed for blindness or low vision.