Acute loss of vision in a young woman: A case report on psychogenic blindness

Abstract

Background: Acute loss of vision needs urgent attention and treatment. We report on a young Ethiopian woman who experienced acute bilateral blindness. In the presence of normal ophthalmological findings psychogenic blindness has to be considered.

Case Details: A 21 years old woman was admitted to the psychiatry clinic at Jimma University specialized Hospital, Jimma, South West Ethiopia. She had not been able to see for a few days. Ophthalmological and neurological examinations showed normal findings. No severe psychopathology was found. Stressful life events had preceded the appearance of the symptoms. An attitude of accepting the perspective of the patient of a seemingly organic disease is a precondition for a successful intervention. Treatment aimed at a gradual return to normal functioning. The patient regained her sight and fully recovered. The final psychiatric diagnosis was psychogenic blindness.

Conclusion: The psychosocial intervention was successful and encouraging for the patient and clinicians.

Keywords: acute loss of vision, psychosocial intervention, conversion disorder, low-income country, international cooperation.