---
title: Cortical visual impairment (CVI)
description: "Cortical visual impairment is reduced vision due to damage or dysfunction in the visual pathways of the brain, not the eyes themselves. It is a leading cause of childhood visual impairment in developed countries. ## Features and causes Ocular examination…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/conditions-diseases/cortical-visual-impairment-cvi/"
updated: "2025-12-16"
category: "Conditions & Diseases"
---

# Cortical visual impairment (CVI)

Cortical visual impairment is reduced vision due to damage or dysfunction in the visual pathways of the brain, not the eyes themselves. It is a leading cause of childhood visual impairment in developed countries.

## Features and causes

Ocular examination may appear relatively normal.

- Inconsistent visual responses and difficulty with complex scenes
- Perinatal hypoxic-ischaemic injury, infections, or brain malformations as common causes
- Coexisting motor, cognitive, or seizure disorders
- Neuroimaging often shows parietal-occipital damage

## Management

There is no simple cure, but visual function can often improve with support.

- Early referral to low-vision and developmental services
- Environmental adaptations: high contrast, simplified backgrounds, and controlled lighting
- Regular ophthalmic monitoring for refractive errors or strabismus
- Close collaboration with neurology, physiotherapy, and education teams