Out of Sight, Still in Sight: Charles Bonnet Syndrome Following Traumatic Vision Loss
Keywords:
Bonnet Syndrome, Traumatic Vision LossAbstract
Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS) is a condition characterized by complex visual hallucinations in individuals with visual impairment, occurring in the absence of hallucinations in other sensory modalities or additional psychotic symptoms. Despite maintaining insight into the non-reality of these hallucinations, affected individuals often experience significant distress, fearing they may be developing a psychiatric illness. This report presents a case of a 22-year-old female university student who developed CBS following total vision loss due to an acid attack by her partner after an argument. Initially, the patient experienced distressing visual hallucinations, which gradually became less troubling as she adapted to them. This case underscores the importance of differentiating CBS from primary psychotic disorders, the potential role of trauma in its pathogenesis, and the necessity of psychoeducation and supportive interventions for individuals with sudden vision loss to prevent unnecessary psychiatric misdiagnosis and psychological distress.
Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 25 No. 03 July’26 Page: 997-1000
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Copyright (c) 2026 Siti Nur Najibah Fauzi, Zahiruddin Othman
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